Many people panic when they are in an auto accident. They worry how it will affect their insurance rates and other matters. Sometimes, panic causes people to say things they will later regret and to overlook information that would be helpful if a dispute arises regarding the accident.

Q. I was in an accident. How do I know if I have a good case?

A. There are several factors to analyze including:

• Fault.  If a person or business did something wrong or failed to do something, your case is stronger. But you can have a good case even if you were partly at fault, since most states let accident victims recover money even if they are partly to blame.
• Damages. To get a money award, you must suffer damage. This can cover many things, including lost wages, medical bills, and costs to fix or replace damaged property.
• Can you collect?  Before you make a claim, you will want to make sure the other side has money, property or insurance so you can collect if you win.

If you've been in an accident, consult your lawyer even if you're unsure whether your case is good. Your lawyer can evaluate all the factors and advise you if your case is strong and estimate how much money you may be entitled to receive, once all the neccessary information is available.

Q Why is it important to act promptly after an accident?

A. There are several reasons why accident victims should not delay seeking legal help. One reason is that there are time limits for making claims If you wait too long and the deadline passes, your claim will be lost. Another reason is that delay can hurt your case. The more time passes after an accident, the harder it can be to gather evidence and for witnesses to remember what happened. Success in the case often depends upon an early and assertive investigation.