Commonly Asked Questions... and Answers.
Most of our clients have never been injured in an auto accident and they have never had to deal with the legal system before getting hurt. We've collected some of the most frequently asked questions about car accidents, personal injury, and what to do after your accident. If you have any unanswered questions, give us a call at (403) 874-5409 for a free consultation of your rights.
What should I do if I get involved in a motor vehicle accident?
If you have been involved in an accident, you should:
Do I really need a lawyer? Wonโt the insurance company settle with me directly?
When should I see a lawyer?
In addition, Alberta legislation mandates certain timelines and limitations which need to be met in order to advance a claim. A failure to comply with these limits may be damaging or prejudicial to your claim and in some circumstances may bar you from bringing any action.
How much does a lawyer charge?
Legal fees can be very costly and some law firms may require a retainer of hundreds, or even thousands of dollars to work on your file. At Szakacs Law, we operate on a โno-win, no-feeโ arrangement. This means that you only pay us, when you get paid.
How long will it take to resolve my claim?
It is difficult to approximate exact timelines as to when your case will resolve. A number of different factors will be relevant if we are to appreciate the length of time it will take.
These include the following:
How long do I have to sue?
For the most part, a third party claim must be commenced within 2 years of your accident. There are a few exceptions to this rule. One of our lawyers can tell you if one of the exceptions applies to you.
What do I do with letters from the insurance company?
The insurer will be made aware that you are being represented for your claim. Although we are copied on every correspondence sent to our clients, it is important that you review these letters to keep up to date on the status of your file. Ensure that you are not responding directly to the insurer when receiving these letters. Any requests made by the insurer will be handled by our firm. If we require additional information from you, you will be contacted by your legal representative directly.
