Personal Injury

Car Accident Attorneys

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Car accident injuries are one of the most common types of personal injury claims. According to the Nebraska Department of Transportation’s Annual Report, in 2020, there were 217 fatal crashes, 1,052 serious injury crashes, 9,847 total injury crashes, and 19,354 property damage only crashes. Many of these accidents were not simply “accidents,” but were the result of negligence on behalf of at least one driver involved. A significant number were caused by drivers who were operating their motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and it is estimated that even a greater number were caused by texting or use of cell phones while driving.

Working with an Attorney

After being injured in a car accident, it is important that you are able to focus on your medical treatment. Serving as your car accident lawyer, our office will fully explain your options, as well as the insurance claims process and the possibility of litigation. We will focus on making sure your rights are protected and that you are treated fairly so that you can focus on your treatment and recovery.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you are successful on your claim. There are absolutely no upfront costs, and all initial consultations are free. If you have recently been injured in an accident, contact our office today to discuss your options or submit a request for a free case evaluation

How to Choose the Right Car Accident Attorney

The term personal injury attorney can be misleading. Typically, the only people who know exactly what a personal injury attorney is are other attorneys or people who have previously been injured in an accident. The only time you need a car accident injury attorney is when you or a member of your family are the ones who are injured in the accident.

In determining who to choose to handle your personal injury claim, you’ll want to consider things such as the lawyer’s experience, specialization in car accident cases, success rate, and client reviews. However, the most important thing is making sure to hire an attorney you are comfortable with. Click the links below to visit our blog for more information on choosing a personal injury attorney.

Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

How to Find a Good Lawyer

What an Attorney Can Do for Your Injury Case

A car accident injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance in various aspects of your car accident case, including:

Case Evaluation

An injury attorney can help properly value your case. In addition to many other factors that come into play, the value of an injury claim is dependent on factors such as where your injury occurred and who caused it. As attorneys experienced in handling car accident injury cases, we can value your claim and explain how things such as varying state laws and local rules of evidence will also play a role.

Initial Investigation and Evidence Gathering

In addition to making certain the accident scene has been documented and speaking with witnesses, attorneys will often involve the help of other experts or specialists early on in a case. In addition to medical professionals, we will often engage accident reconstructionists or an expert to download and preserve an airbag control module. Engaging an accident attorney sooner versus later helps ensure that essential evidence is properly preserved.

Legal Advice and Strategy

Attorneys provide legal advice as to your rights and the best course of action based on your specific circumstances. Not every situation is the same. The attorneys at Chandler Conway are experienced in handling auto injury cases throughout the claims process and, when necessary, at trial. We can explain all available options and then form a plan that best fits your situation.

Handling Communications

After being injured in a car accident, you will receive numerous phone calls and correspondence. As your attorney, we can handle all communications with all involved insurance companies. We will also help with any medical providers or collection agencies so that you can focus on your treatment and health.

Medical Referrals and Documentation

Attorneys can help you navigate your treatment, as well as help coordinate treatment with a provider who will treat you on a lien basis if health insurance is not in play. As your attorney, we will also gather and organize all relevant medical records, medical bills, and health insurance itemizations to make sure everything is taken care of and that the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life is properly demonstrated.

Settlement and Litigation

As your attorney, we will negotiate settlement with the liability insurance company, as well as with your own auto insurance carrier and any potential health insurance providers. If settlement cannot be reached, then we can pursue your case in litigation and represent you at trial.

Maximizing Compensation

The attorneys at Chandler Conway calculate all potential damages, including economic (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic (physical pain, mental suffering, emotional distress, inconvenience, etc.) to ensure you receive full compensation.

We also consider future damages such as future medical expenses and long-term impacts on your earning capacity when determining the amount that will adequately compensate you.

A car accident injury attorney with the right experience and expertise can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome in your case, allowing you to focus on recovery while they focus on handling your claim.

What to Do Following a Car Accident

Be Careful Who You Talk To

Do not talk to anyone about the details of your car accident except for your doctors and attorneys. Always require identification so that you know who is talking with you. Be careful of insurance companies attempting to gain as much information as possible before you hire an injury attorney. Also be careful of telephone solicitors, as attorneys in the State of Nebraska, and most other states, are not allowed to solicit injured parties via telephone. If anyone contacts you by phone they are likely a representative of an insurance company or a chiropractic clinic.

See Your Doctors

Return to each of your doctors as is necessary, and keep them informed of all complaints. Your job after being injured in an accident is to keep your doctors informed of all problems and to get yourself healed. Your personal injury claim will take care of itself. Make sure to keep your attorney informed of any doctors or treating personnel that you see.

Keep a Record of Complaints

Keep record of any problems or progress you make throughout your treatment, as well as any specific ways in which the injuries affected you (i.e. missed vacations, missed sporting activities, or missed celebrations). This record will help you both in recounting exactly what you went through on a day-to-day basis as well as help your physicians in treating your ailments. Being able to detail exactly how the injury affected you helps illustrate the hardships you dealt with to the insurance company.

Track Wages & Lost Earnings

Track any time missed from work, whether in the form of sick pay, paid time off, or lost opportunities. You should be compensated for any wages lost or PTO utilized as a result of the injuries you suffered from the accident. For self-employed individuals, it is especially important to keep a detailed record of how your injuries impacted your income.

Keep Copies of Medical Bills

Obtain and keep duplicate copies of any bills relating to medical expenses, including, but not limited to: treatment, x-rays, medications, braces, etc. You want all of your accident-related medical expenses to first be processed by your health insurance, but try to make any out-of-pocket payments by check or credit card so the payments can be easily traced and speak with your attorney about your health insurance, as well as any potential medical payment coverage that may be available.

Wait on the Auto Repair

Do not have your car fixed until you or your attorney have obtained multiple photos of any resulting damage from the accident, and the auto insurance companies have had the opportunity to inspect the damage. You may have more than one option about how to deal with the repair of your vehicle.

Discuss Obtaining a Rental Vehicle

More often than not you are entitled to a rental vehicle for a reasonable time or compensation for the loss of use of your vehicle. If needed, your attorney can assist you in obtaining your rental vehicle.

Track Additional Expenses

Additional expenses you receive as a result of your injuries can often be included in the insurance settlement value. Keep track of any additional expenses you incur as a result of your being injured, including receipts. Additional expenses may include cleaning expenses, lawn mowing expenses, home modifications, etc.

Don’t Plead Guilty to Traffic Offenses

Never plead guilty to any traffic offenses without first consulting an attorney. While pursuant to Neb. Rev. Stat. §60-693, violations of the Nebraska Rules of the Road are not admissible evidence in a civil lawsuit, pleading guilty to a traffic offense can still have adverse consequences on your injury claim. Speak with your attorney before pleading guilty to any offenses related to your accident.

Photograph Everything

Take photographs of any and all injuries or property damage that occurred as a result of the accident. Make sure your attorney has access to these photographs, or has an opportunity to take his/her own.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Give us a call at (402) 933-6858 to speak to a car accident lawyer or visit us online at chandlerconway.com.

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Reviews

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A Review for Sean Conway

- From a Past Client

"Sean made the whole process extremely easy! His staff was very responsive and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend him."

A Review for Eric Chandler

- From a Past Client

"Mr. Chandler was absolutely wonderful...He took the time to fully explain everything to us and did it in a way we could understand. He always got back to us in a timely manner and was extremely professional. I would highly recommend him to anyone that needs an attorney."

A Review for Sean Conway

- From a Past Client

"I highly recommend Sean Conway. He is the best. Sean helped me out when I thought there was no way out of my situation. He will go above and beyond to help take stress off your back. I am forever grateful for his hard work."

A Review for Marcus Sladek

- From a Past Client

"My first attorney was from a different firm and was unable to help me and could not even return my calls; that's when I hired Marcus Sladek. He was able to get all my charges dropped besides one misdemeanor, but more importantly, he kept me out of jail. Marcus kept in contact with me throughout the entire case and he did an outstanding job representing me. I can't thank him enough."

A Review for Eric Chandler

- From a Past Client

"Eric Chandler was my attorney a few months ago. I got his name through a recommendation, and he could not have been more helpful. He was able to negotiate a great deal for me that I am confident that I would not have gotten from hiring another lawyer (my friend in the same situation opted for someone else and was gravely disappointed). Eric made me feel more at ease in a crappy situation. I strongly recommend him."

A Review for Sean Conway

- From a Past Client

"Sean is a stand up guy very true to his word and will work to help in anyway possible was facing 20 years and was able to dismiss the case."

A Review for Natalie Andrews

- From a Past Client

"First of all, the entire team is beyond welcoming from the moment you walk in. They listen and care and are so patient with everything. Specifically, Natalie was amazing from beginning to end. Very very thorough, resourceful, and respectful. Very punctual (including the rest of the staff) in regards to getting everything done and responding, they have my total trust. If I could give more stars I would. All endeavors I may have to encounter in the future will be brought to this firm and nowhere else."

A Review for Sean Conway

- From a Past Client

"Sean made the whole process extremely easy! His staff was very responsive and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend his firm."

A Review for Natalie Andrews

- From a Past Client

"Natalie Andrews was a wonderful attorney to work with. She was organized, confident, reassuring, and always prepared. Natalie was very strategic throughout the case, always having a plan A but also backup options. She explained her choices to us in a way that made sense. She also knew what was important to the prosecutor and judge in getting things resolved and stayed focused on that. She was clearly respected by the other attorneys each time she walked into the room, but she's also the kind of person who knew the people working at the door and made it a point to say hello to them..."

A Review for Natalie Andrews

- From a Past Client

"I worked with Natalie Andrews. She was very attentive and detailed. I highly recommend her."

A Review for Sean Conway

- From a Past Client

"Sean was an excellent attorney dealing with my Workman Compensation case as well as my personal injury attack . Very pleased how well he represented me and the outcome of my case. He kept me in the loop with the Workman Compensation negotiations. He always informed as the case progressed and transpired. Sean promptly returned my calls and emails and he answered my questions in a timely manner."

A Review for Marcus Sladek

- From a Past Client

"Marcus Sladek helped me with my case, he was very helpful throughout the entire process!"

A Review for Natalie Andrews

- From a Past Client

"Natalie Andrews was amazing to work with! I highly recommend her!"

A Review for Chandler Conway

- From a Past Client

"They are very through and get straight to the point. Very friendly and will explain any and every question that comes their way. I highly recommend!"

A Review for Eric Chandler

- From a Past Client

"I’ve gone to Eric in the past with issues I’ve faced and he was knowledgeable and confident in his practice. He makes you feel safe and comfortable in speaking with him. Some issues can be very time consuming, expensive and difficult. However- Mr. Chandler was welcoming and offered help when you feel like you are alone and afraid. Thanks Eric for your help."

A Review for Marcus Sladek

- From a Past Client

"Marcus Sladek of Chandler Conway provided excellent representation during my unusually complex case. He successfully argued and won the appeal that awarded a deferred judgment on my misdemeanor charge. My career is able to go on without a blemish thanks to Marcus. He has my gratitude and highest recommendation."

A Review for Eric Chandler

- From a Past Client

"Eric is the best! I had a most difficult case with a lot of moving parts and massive medical bills. He exceeded all my expectations. Most of all he cared about my situation and made me feel at ease every step of the way. By far the best lawyer I have ever worked with."

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have additional questions not included here, please contact us.

Do I need a personal injury attorney?

Whether you need an attorney after being injured in a car accident depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the complexity of your case, whether there is dispute as to liability, and whether the insurance company is willing to offer you a fair settlement. It never hurts to at least speak with a local injury attorney to have your questions answered and find out what options you have.

Some general guidelines to help you decide whether you need to retain a personal injury attorney:

Your injuries are severe. If you have suffered serious injuries, such as a broken bone, spinal cord injury, any injury resulting in surgery (or the possibility of future surgical intervention), or traumatic brain injury, you should definitely hire a personal injury attorney. These types of injuries typically involve some level of permanency and can result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial damages. An experienced injury attorney can help make sure you are fully compensated.
Your case is complex. If your case involves multiple parties, disputed liability, multiple insurance coverages, insufficient insurance coverage, or complex legal issues, you should hire an attorney. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate both the claims process and the legal system, as well as make certain you are aware of your rights and that those rights are protected.
The insurance company is not offering you a fair settlement. While it’s better to consult with an attorney before attempting to negotiate your claim, if you’ve already entered into discussions with the insurance company and the carrier is offering you a lowball settlement or refusing to negotiate at all, you should speak with a local injury attorney.

Even if at first you think your injuries are minor and your case seems straightforward, you may still want to consider consulting an attorney to make sure you are aware of all options, as well as any potential pitfalls. Often injuries end up being more significant than originally thought. Insurance companies are notoriously difficult to deal with, and they often try to settle claims immediately after a crash before the injured party is aware of the full nature and extent of their injuries. An attorney can help you level the playing field and get the settlement you deserve.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?

Nearly all of our injury cases are taken on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we are successful in obtaining a recovery. You pay nothing up front, and our office fronts all of the associated costs.

How do I find a good personal injury attorney?

There are a number of ways to find a good personal injury attorney. You can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other professionals. In fact, most of our clients come as referrals from past clients or other attorneys. You can also search online for attorneys in your area. When choosing an injury attorney, consider interviewing more than one candidate. Ask them about their experience, qualifications, and fees and make certain to retain someone you feel comfortable with representing you.

What if the driver who caused the car accident does not have auto insurance?

Fortunately, most car insurance, and every auto insurance policy issued in Nebraska, contains both uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. If you have been injured in a car crash and the person who caused the crash did not have insurance, speak with your accident injury attorney about what options you might have under your own auto insurance.

The sooner we hear from you, the sooner we can help.

Contact Us 402-933-6858