AUTO AND MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
Quality and Aggressive Legal Representation since 1954.
Auto and Motorcycle Accidents
At Fortuna & Cartelli PC, we understand the elements in a motor vehicle accident case and use our expertise to the advantage of all of our clients. We handle major motor vehicle accidents including:
- Drunk driver crashes
- Hit and run accidents
- Commercial vehicle accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Uninsured motorists / underinsured motorist
- Injuries caused by trucks
- Tractor trailer truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
Recent Lawsuits and Settlements Handled by Attorney Thomas Cartelli:
- Driver of a tandem tractor trailer truck hit a tree that had fallen off a large flat bed delivery truck onto Interstate 95. Injuries to back, neck and post concussion complications. Case involved complex workers' compensation claim as well as a lawsuit for negligence. Multiple out-of-state individuals named as defendants in case. Lawsuit resolved by settlement with insurance company for $745,000.00.
- Client was hit by a drunk driver traveling at very high speeds causing client to suffer neck, back and bilateral shoulder injuries. Case involved complex workers' compensation claim as well as a lawsuit for negligence. Lawsuit resolved through judicial mediation for $625,000.00.
- Client was hit head on by a school bus causing him to suffer multiple injuries including neck strain and damage to internal organs. Lawsuit resolved through judicial mediation for $390,000.00.
- Client rear ended by a driver who fled the scene of the accident. At fault driver forced to appear at a deposition to testify. At the deposition he admitted being the driver of the at-fault automobile. Case involved complex workers' compensation claim as well as a lawsuit for negligence. Lawsuit resolved for $225,000.00.
What To Do in Case of a Motor Vehicle Accident
Stop and Notify Police:
It is extremely important to contact the local or state police immediately. The investigating police officer will prepare an accident report which will include extremely important information and evidence that will assist us in pursuing your personal injury claim.
Police officers often secure statements or admissions of fault / guilt from the other operator. These statements are normally included in the police report and may be used against the other person during a trial. Do not move the cars after an accident until the police officer arrives, unless the position of your car presents a dangerous condition for other drivers approaching the accident scene. You should note the investigating police officer's name, badge number and whether the officer is a local officer or state trooper.
Exchange Information:
The investigating officer will obtain all relevant identification and insurance information of the other driver. If the police are not called to the scene, you must at least obtain the name, address and automobile insurance company name and policy number of the other driver. Ask to see their license, registration and insurance card. Copy down all information on the license including the driver's name, address and identification number on his license.
Make No Statement:
Except for exchanging the required information with the other driver, do not have any discussion with the other driver regarding who was at fault. Do not engage in arguments with the other driver. In the heat of the moment, you may say something that is inaccurate, which can be used against you in the future. Tell the police officer your version of the accident.
Witnesses:
If other motorists stop at the scene, inquire if they witnessed the accident. Attempt to get the name, address and telephone number of any witness to the accident. Urge witnesses to remain at the scene and give a statement to police upon their arrival.
Medical Treatment:
Seek medical treatment immediately. Have your body thoroughly examined and be sure to inform the physician of any pain or discomfort you may have in any part of your body. Delaying treatment for injuries suffered at the time of the accident will likely have a detrimental effect on your personal injury case.
Contact Legal Counsel:
Securing legal counsel early in the process is extremely important! When our office is contacted, we immediately schedule an appointment for the client to discuss their case. Some of the issues we address without delay include the following:
- In some cases we may initiate a full accident reconstruction by a qualified expert in the field
- Secure and protect any and all evidence necessary to properly and aggressively pursue the claim
- Assist you with medical bills in an attempt to avoid debt collection against you for unpaid medical bills
- Contact the insurance company for the other driver to confirm there is an adequate amount of insurance coverage
- Investigate the existence of multiple insurance policies that may provide coverage to compensate the client and
- Assist you in arranging for a loaner vehicle for you until your vehicle is repaired or replaced
Pictures:
Obtaining numerous pictures of the physical injuries you sustained, the accident scene and all the vehicles involved in the accident is extremely important. This should be done without delay as the vehicles may be repaired or taken by the insurance companies within days of the accident. Having pictures helps prove the severity of the impact between the vehicles. Also, cuts and bruises heal over time. Having pictures of the injuries helps prove the degree of pain and suffering you endured.
Call us today for a FREE initial consultation.
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