Automobile Accidents

Every year thousands of people are injured and killed in car accidents.Sadly, most of these car crashes are preventable. By law, each and every driver has a duty to other motorists and pedestrians to exert "reasonable care." When this doesn't happen itcan result in an auto accident and quite often, personal injury.

The most common situations that result in accident and injury are when a driver ignored a traffic sign or signal, made an unlawful lane change, was traveling with excessive speed, or was driving under the influence. This disregard to those around them can lead to devastating and long-term effects. Head injuries, brain damage,broken bones, spinal injuries, and more could lead to a lifetime of complications and disabilities.

Car accident investigations are complex and confusing. If you have been seriously injured in an automobile accident, it is vital that you DO NOT talk to the insurance companies and IMMEDIATELY contact an attorney that specializes in personal injury cases. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney helps insure that you will receive the largest settlement possible.

For more than fifteen years Grabb and Durando has been aggressively representing Tucson accident victims and has a success rate over 98%. Unlike the insurance companies, we fight to get our clients the compensation they deserve. We do everything we can to take away the stress and worry that often accompanies an auto accident, so all you have to do is get better. If you dont have insurance, we can refer you to medical specialists that will treat you on a lien. We can even get you a car rental on a lien if there is not coverage through your insurance. In both situations,you pay nothing until your case settles.

What to do if you have been in an accident

An auto accident can be stressful, but knowing what to do in advance can help you deal with this unexpected event.

Be Prepared

Most drivers have a smartphone that will allow you to take notes and photos of an accident. However, if you do not have such a device, it is important that you carry a disposable camera, as well as pen and paper for taking notes. It is also a good idea to keep a card in your wallet/purse with information about medical allergies and a list of emergency contacts. A set of cones, warning triangles or emergency flares should be kept in the trunk.

Safety First

If you are involved in a minor accident that does not involve serious injuries, you should move your vehicle to the side of the road and out of the way of oncoming traffic. If your vehicle cannot be moved, or if there are serious injuries, you should call 911, turn on your hazard lights and remain in the vehicle until help arrives. If you are not injured and your vehicle cant be moved, you can set up your emergency flares and warning triangles (if available).

Remain Calm & Watch What You Say

Emotions can flare after an accident, especially if the other driver was at fault. Take a deep breath and remain calm. You should speak to the other driver only to get his or her information and to make sure the driver is OK. Don't admit fault or say "I'm sorry" during your conversation. Making such a statement could be used against you in future proceedings.

Exchange Information

Make sure that you collect the following information:

All personal information from the other driver(s) including name, address, phone number and drivers license number and state of issuance. Insurance information from the other driver(s) including name of their insurance company, policy number and expiration date of policy. The vehicle year, make and model, license plate number and state of issuance, and Vehicle Information Number. Also obtain the vehicle owner's name and address. It is also helpful to obtain the number of passengers in each vehicle, along with their names and phone numbers. Take photos of the scene of the accident as well as any damage to the vehicles.

Seek Medical Treatment

For your convenience, we have created an Accident Check List. We recommend that you print this out and keep a copy in your vehicle with your insurance and registration.

If you feel like you may be injured, it is important that you seek immediate medical treatment. Keep in mind that many accident victims experience delayed onset injuries. The stress of an auto accident often causes the body to create endorphins, which mask the pain and other symptoms of injury. It is common for an accident victim to feel OK immediately after the accident, but to experience pain in the hours or days that follow.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

If you have been involved in ANY type of automobile accident, even if you dont think there was an injury, it is important that you call an experienced personal injury attorney. The experienced lawyers at Grabb & Durando will be happy to talk with you about your automobile accident and let you know all of your options. All consultations are free, even if you choose not to hire us, and there is never a fee unless we win your case.

Additional Note

Also be aware that all parties involved in traffic collisions are required by Arizona law to provide the driver's name, address, and the registration number of the vehicle (ARS 28-663). Refusing to give this information or leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense.