When we open your case, we cannot give you an estimate on the value of your case. Until we gather all the necessary materials concerning the liability issues and damage issues in your case, our estimate is not likely to be very accurate. Only after the necessary work is done will we have a reliable estimate.

We strive to keep you informed on developments in your case. We understand the importance of open communication between client and one of our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers. While we would like to talk to you every week, this is usually not practical since legal cases often take quite some time to resolve. Rest assured that we are working on your case. When important developments occur, we will call you immediately.

We employ trained case managers and legal assistants to work with our lawyers. These qualified staff members will help the attorney in processing your claim. Your case will be assigned to one of of our case managers and a legal assistant who will be familiar with your case and work with your attorney.

We will try to answer your questions promptly. If your attorney is not in or is unavailable when you call, ask for your case manager. Your case manage will have the most current information on your case. If the case manager cannot answer your questions, he will forward the question to your attorney. He will either get back to you or have your attorney call you.

In most cases, you can settle your property damage claim on your own. You may decide to deal directly with the responsible person’s insurance company, or you may wish to settle under the collision portion of your own policy. If you settle with your insurance company, the company should make a claim against the responsible person’s insurance company and reimburse you for the deductible. This is part of the service that you pay for when you buy collision coverage. If your car was a total loss in the accident, there are several methods to help you figure out the fair market value of your car:

1. Classified ads in the newspaper.
2. NADA Book – call your bank or credit union.
3. Auto Trader Magazine – can be purchased at many convenience stores.
4. Car Dealers.

Once you’ve checked these sources, you should have a pretty good idea about the range of value for your car. When you settle your Property Damage Claim, be sure to let us review any documents before you sign them.

In this situation, the other driver is an “uninsured motorist”. We will figure out the amount of uninsured motorist coverage applicable under any other automobile policies so that you may seek compensation from those insurance companies.

If you are thinking about filing for bankruptcy, please contact our office before taking any action. Your personal injury proceeds would be part of your assets in any bankruptcy action. Bankruptcy can affect your personal injury case so be sure to speak with us before filing for bankruptcy.

We will do everything we can to help settle your claim, and we will advance the costs of the legal action. We cannot, however, loan you money. The laws of Los Angeles are quite specific: it is illegal for an attorney to lend a client money and could result in disciplinary action against our firm. If you are getting letters from collection agencies or other creditors, we will be happy to write to them and explain that you have a personal injury action in progress. We will ask them to give you more time or defer payment until you receive your settlement.

Besides legal fees, there are various charges which must be paid to prepare your case. Police departments typically charge for a copy of the accident report. Physicians bill us for preparation of their medical reports. Other incidental costs of this kind accrue as well. Costs also may include bills received from other people about your case, such as court reporters, expert witnesses and others. We will advance these costs, and we are paid only if we win or settle your case.

If someone you know is injured, we would be happy to speak with them about the accident and any potential claim. Please ask them to call your attorney, and be sure to have them mention that they are a friend of yours. We will set up an appointment immediately. Our firm handles all types of personal injury cases.