The evidence collected after a collision can directly impact an injured victim’s ability to recover compensation. Preserving important information early may also help prove how the accident occurred and who caused the crash.

Photographs of the Accident Scene Can Be Critical

Conditions inside work zones can change quickly after a crash. Consequently, photographs often provide some of the strongest evidence in a construction zone accident case. Construction crews may move signs, barriers, equipment, or lane markings within hours. Thus, accident scene photographs helps preserve important details before conditions change.

Helpful photographs include:

• Road construction signs.
• Lane closures or detours.
• Traffic cones and barriers.
• Skid marks.
• Vehicle damage.
• Loose gravel or debris.
• Poor lighting conditions.
• Uneven pavement or potholes.

Drivers should take photographs from multiple angles whenever possible.

Dash Camera Footage May Capture the Crash

Video footage may show exactly how a construction zone collision occurred. As a result, dash cameras have become increasingly valuable after traffic accidents.

In particular, dash camera recordings may capture:

• Sudden lane shifts.
• Unsafe merging.
• Distracted drivers.
• Speeding vehicles.
• Missing warning signs.
• Dangerous roadway conditions.

In some cases, nearby commercial vehicles or other motorists may also possess helpful video footage.

Because recordings may be deleted quickly, injured victims should attempt to preserve this evidence immediately after an accident.

Police Reports Often Contain Important Findings

Law enforcement officers responding to construction zone crashes typically prepare detailed accident reports. In addition, police reports contain valuable information about:

• Driver statements.
• Witness accounts.
• Road conditions.
• Traffic violations.
• Weather conditions.
• Initial fault determinations.

Police reports may also identify whether road construction conditions contributed to the accident.

Although police reports may not always determine final liability, they often become important pieces of evidence during insurance claims and lawsuits.

Witness Statements Can Strengthen Alaska Construction Zone Accident Claim

Independent witnesses may provide critical testimony after a construction zone accident. Witnesses often observe dangerous driving behavior or unsafe roadway conditions before a crash occurs.

For example, witnesses may confirm:

• A driver was speeding.
• Traffic signs were missing.
• Construction equipment blocked visibility.
• Drivers ignored flaggers or lane closures.

Witness memories can fade over time. Therefore, collecting names and contact information quickly is important.

Medical Records Help Connect Injuries to the Crash

Medical documentation plays a major role in any Alaska personal injury claim. Immediate medical treatment not only protects a victim’s health, but also creates records linking injuries directly to the accident.

Medical records document:

• Emergency treatment.
• Diagnostic imaging results.
• Surgical procedures.
• Physical therapy.
• Long-term disability.
• Pain complaints.

In contrast, delays in medical treatment may allow insurance companies to argue that injuries were unrelated to the construction zone accident.

Construction Records May Reveal Safety Violations

Construction companies and contractors must follow strict roadway safety standards. In some cases, internal construction records may reveal unsafe practices or regulatory violations.

Important evidence may include:

• Work zone inspection reports.
• Traffic control plans.
• Contractor safety logs.
• Maintenance records.
• Roadway design documents.

These records may help determine whether construction crews created dangerous driving conditions.

Cell Phone Records May Prove Distracted Driving

Distracted driving remains a leading cause of construction zone accidents. Cell phone records may help show whether a driver was texting, calling, or using mobile apps at the time of the collision.

This evidence can become especially important in serious injury or wrongful death cases.

Early Investigation Matters In Alaska Construction Zone Accidents

Construction zone accident evidence can disappear quickly. Road crews may repair hazards, remove equipment, or change traffic patterns shortly after a crash.

At the same time, surveillance footage may be erased and witnesses may become harder to locate.

Early investigation often helps preserve valuable evidence before it is lost forever.

Protect Your Rights After an Alaska Construction Zone Accident

Overall, Alaska construction zone accident injury claims often involve complicated legal and factual issues. Proving liability may require evidence from multiple sources, including accident scenes, medical providers, contractors, and law enforcement agencies.

Drivers injured in Alaska construction zone accidents involving cars or motorcycles may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future medical costs. However, recovering full compensation often depends on proving how the accident occurred and who caused the crash. Therefore, strong evidence such as photographs, witness statements, medical records, and accident reports can play a critical role in building a successful Alaska construction zone injury claim.

Johnson Law has been serving injured Alaskans and protecting injured Alaska Tourists’ rights for 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: Preserve Evidence After An Alaska Construction Zone Accident

Construction zones often create dangerous driving conditions across Alaska during the summer months. Narrow lanes, reduced speed limits, uneven pavement, and shifting traffic patterns increase the risk of serious crashes. When an accident happens in a work zone, injured victims often wonder who may be legally responsible.

Determining liability in an Alaska construction zone accident is complex. To illustrate, in some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for injuries and damages.

Negligent Drivers Often Cause Work Zone Accidents

Many Alaska construction zone crashes occur because drivers fail to adjust to changing road conditions. Speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, and unsafe lane changes frequently lead to collisions in active work areas.

For example, a driver who ignores warning signs or follows another vehicle too closely through an Alaska construction zone may cause a rear-end accident when traffic suddenly slows. Similarly, distracted drivers may fail to notice lane closures or flaggers directing traffic.

Drivers have a legal duty to operate vehicles safely in construction zones. When they fail to do so, they may be held financially responsible for injuries they cause.

Construction Companies May Share Responsibility

Construction companies and contractors must maintain safe Alaska construction work zones for drivers and workers. If crews fail to follow safety regulations, serious accidents may occur.

For example, unsafe construction zone conditions may include:

• Missing warning signs.
• Poorly marked lane shifts.
• Inadequate lighting.
• Dangerous road debris.
• Improper traffic control devices.
• Unsafe equipment placement.

Accordingly, drivers may not have enough warning to react safely if a construction company fails to post clear detour signs or hazard notices.

Consequently, construction contractors who create unsafe Alaska construction zone roadway conditions may face liability for resulting accidents and injuries.

Government Agencies May Be Liable

Some Alaska construction zone projects involve state or local government agencies. Specifically, agencies responsible for roadway maintenance and project oversight may sometimes contribute to dangerous conditions.

Examples may include:

• Failure to repair known roadway hazards.
• Poor project planning.
• Unsafe traffic control measures.
• Failure to inspect construction areas properly.

Claims involving government agencies often follow strict filing deadlines and legal procedures. Therefore, injured victims should act quickly after a construction zone accident.

Commercial Vehicles May Increase Construction Zone Risks

Large trucks and commercial vehicles face additional challenges in Alaska construction zones. Indeed, reduced lane widths and sudden traffic changes may increase the likelihood of collisions involving tractor-trailers, delivery vehicles, or construction trucks.

Truck drivers and trucking companies may become liable if they:

• Drive too fast for conditions.
• Fail to maintain vehicles properly.
• Ignore work zone traffic laws.
• Operate while distracted or fatigued.

Commercial vehicle accidents in construction zones often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of large trucks.

Evidence Is Critical After a Construction Zone Crash

In fact, strong evidence often plays a key role in proving fault after an Alaska construction zone accident. Injured victims should preserve as much information as possible after a crash.

Helpful evidence may include:

• Photographs of road conditions and signage.
• Dash camera footage.
• Police reports.
• Witness statements.
• Medical records.
• Construction zone layouts.
• Vehicle damage documentation.

In addition, accident investigators may review whether construction companies and drivers followed Alaska traffic safety regulations.

Injuries From Alaska Construction Zone Accidents Can Be Severe

Construction zone crashes frequently involve high-impact collisions, sudden stops, and hazardous road conditions. Victims may suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries.
• Spinal cord injuries.
• Broken bones.
• Internal injuries.
• Neck and back injuries.
• Long-term disability.

Consequently, these injuries often lead to expensive medical treatment, lost income, and ongoing pain and suffering.

Protect Your Rights After an Alaska Construction Zone Accident

In conclusion, construction zone accident claims can involve multiple insurance companies, contractors, and legal issues. Determining liability requires careful investigation and strong evidence.

Drivers injured in Alaska construction zone accidents may have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment costs, and other damages caused by negligence. Therefore, acting quickly after an accident helps preserve important evidence and protect your legal rights.

Johnson Law has been serving injured Alaskans and protecting injured Alaska Tourists’ rights for 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: Alaska Road Construction

Pay Attention in Construction Zones

Drivers must stay alert and cautious when traveling during Alaska construction season. Road work areas often contain changing traffic patterns, narrowed lanes, uneven pavement, construction equipment, and active workers near moving vehicles. Slow down, follow posted signs, and maintain a safe distance between your vehicle, other drivers, and roadside crews.

Watch carefully for work trucks, loose materials, tools, and debris that may create dangerous driving conditions. Safe driving in construction zones helps prevent serious accidents and protects both motorists and road workers.

Avoid Distracted Driving

Distracted drivers increases the risk of serious accidents during Alaska construction season. Stay focused and alert when traveling through road work areas. Avoid using your phone, lower the radio volume, and regularly check your mirrors and blind spots. Paying close attention to changing traffic patterns, road crews, and construction vehicles can help prevent avoidable crashes and Alaska construction zone injuries.

Slow Down for Road Work During Alaska Construction Season

Summer road construction is common across Alaska highways and city streets. Crews often perform road repairs, resurfacing projects, and traffic flow improvements during the warmer months. Drivers should reduce speed and remain attentive when approaching construction zones, lane shifts, or detours.

Slowing down during Alaska construction season improves safety for motorists, passengers, and roadside workers. Drivers should also remember that Alaska traffic fines often increase in active work zones.

Alaska’s summer construction season creates unique driving hazards for residents and visitors alike. Road work zones often include reduced speed limits, changing traffic patterns, loose gravel, heavy equipment, and active roadside crews. Drivers who stay alert, avoid distractions, and slow down in construction areas can significantly reduce the risk of serious accidents and injuries.

Safe driving habits protect everyone on Alaska roads. Paying attention in work zones, following posted signs, and giving workers and other vehicles extra space can help prevent collisions during the busy summer travel season. Drivers injured in Alaska construction zone accidents may have legal rights to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages caused by negligent drivers or unsafe roadway conditions during Alaska construction season.

Johnson Law has been serving injured Alaskans and protecting injured Alaska Tourists’ rights for 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: Alaska Construction Season Roadworks Flagger

Alaska Personal Injury Lawyer – If you’ve been injured in an accident, choosing the right attorney makes a significant difference in your recovery – both physically and financially. So, how do you hire the best Alaska personal injury lawyer?

In short, the best lawyer has experience, proven results, strong communication, and a deep understanding of Alaska law.

Below, we break down exactly what to look for – and how to make the right choice.

Why Hiring the Right Alaska Personal Injury Lawyer Matters

First and foremost, personal injury cases are complex. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and without skilled representation, you may recover far less than you deserve.

For example an experienced Alaska personal injury attorney will:

• Investigate your case thoroughly
• Gather and preserve critical evidence
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies
• Fight for maximum compensation

As a result, hiring the right lawyer can directly impact the outcome of your case.

What Makes Johnson Law The Best Choice?

1. Proven Experience in Alaska Injury Law

Not all attorneys are the same. You should look for a lawyer who focuses specifically on personal injury cases in Alaska.

Why does this matter?

Because Alaska has unique laws, including:

• Comparative fault rules
• Strict filing deadlines (statute of limitations)
• Local court procedures

Therefore, local experience gives your case a strategic advantage.

2. Strong Track Record of Results

Next, results matter. While no Alaska Personal Injury Lawyer can guarantee an outcome, a history of successful settlements and verdicts shows they know how to win.

Look for:

• Significant settlements
• Trial experience
• Case similar to yours with good results

In other words, past success often signals future performance.

3. Clear Communication and Availability

Equally important, your Alaska Personal Injury Lawyer should be easy to reach and willing to explain your case clearly.

In addition, you deserve a lawyer who:

• Returns your calls promptly
• Keeps you updated
• Explains legal terms in plain language

After all, you should never feel left in the dark about your own case.

4. Positive Client Reviews and Reputation

Additionally, client feedback provides real insight into what you can expect.

Check for:

• Google reviews
• Testimonials
• Peer recognition

Consistent positive reviews often indicate reliability and professionalism.

5. Contingency Fee Structure

Most reputable personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• An attorney fee is paid only if you win

As a result, your lawyer is motivated to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

You don’t have to handle this alone. At Johnson Law, PC, we help injured Alaskans fight for the compensation they deserve. Furthermore, our experienced team understands Alaska law and knows how to win.

Learn more: Alaska Injury Claims: Choose The Best Law Firm

Call Johnson Law today to discuss your Alaska Injury Case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form to get started. Your consultation is free, and you pay no fees unless we win.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Below, we break down the most costly mistakes people make after an accident – and explain how you can protect yourself.

Costly Mistakes After An Accident

For example, the most common mistakes after an accident include not seeking medical care, failing to document the scene, admitting fault, delaying a claim, and not contacting an attorney. These errors can reduce or even eliminate your ability to recover compensation.

Not Seeking Medical Attention Right Away

Although you may feel “fine” after an accident – many injuries, like soft tissue damage (whiplash) or internal damage, don’t show symptoms immediately. This is a is a costly mistake after an accident to both your health and your financial well-being.

Why this hurts your case:

• Insurance companies may argue you weren’t actually injured
• Delayed treatment weakens medical evidence

What to do instead: Seek medical care immediately and follow all treatment recommendations.

Failing to Report the Accident

In Alaska, certain accidents must be reported to law enforcement, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. Failing to report is a costly mistake after an accident.

Why this matters:

• A police report provides critical documentation
• Lack of a report can make proving fault harder

What to do instead: Always report the accident and request a copy of the report.

Not Gathering Evidence at the Scene

If you’re able, documenting the accident scene is one of the most important steps you can take.

Common evidence includes:

• Photos of vehicles, injuries, and road conditions
• Witness names and contact information
• Weather and road conditions (especially important in Alaska)

What to do instead: Use your phone to collect as much evidence as possible before leaving helps to avoid a costly mistake after an accident.

Admitting Fault or Saying Too Much

It’s natural to want to apologize – but even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.

Why this is risky:

• Fault is not always clear immediately
• Insurance companies may use your words to reduce your claim

What to do instead: Avoid a costly mistake after an accident and stick to the facts when speaking to others at the scene.

Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice

Insurance adjusters may seem helpful, but their goal is to minimize insurance company payouts. Giving a statement or interview without advice can be is a costly mistake after an accident.

Common tactics include:

• Requesting recorded statements
• Offering quick, low settlements

What to do instead: Speak with an attorney before giving statements or accepting any offers.

Delaying Your Personal Injury Claim

Alaska has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims – generally two years from the date of the accident.

Why timing matters:

• Missing the deadline may bar you from recovering compensation
• Evidence and witness memories fade over time

What to do instead: Act quickly to protect your rights. Missing Alaska’s statute of limitations is a costly mistake after an accident.

Not Hiring an Alaska Personal Injury Attorney

Unfortunately, many people try to handle claims on their own – often leaving money on the table.

Specifically, an Alaska personal injury attorney will help you:

• Determine the true value of your claim
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies
• Ensure deadlines and legal requirements are met

Protect Your Rights After an Accident in Alaska

To protect your rights after an accident:

1. Seek medical attention immediately
2. Report the accident
3. Document everything
4. Avoid admitting fault
5. Be cautious with insurance companies
6. Act quickly
7. Consult a personal injury attorney

Taking these steps significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Why Avoiding Costly Mistakes After An Accident Matters in Alaska

Alaska presents unique risks – icy roads, extreme weather, and remote locations can all complicate accident claims. These factors make proper documentation and timely action even more critical.

When Should You Contact an Attorney?

Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident – especially if:

• You suffered injuries
• Fault is unclear
• An insurance company disputes your claim

Early legal guidance can prevent costly mistakes and strengthen your case from the start.

Final Thoughts: Avoid Costly Mistakes After An Accident. A single mistake after an accident can have lasting consequences. The right steps can protect your health, your rights, and your financial future.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Alaska, don’t leave your claim to chance. Understanding what to avoid is the first step toward recovery.

Please contact Johnson Law today to discuss your Personal Injury Law Claim: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image generated in ChatGPT – Prompt: After An Accident in Alaska

The answer depends on the situation, but in many cases – especially when injuries, insurance companies, or liability disputes are involved – speaking with an attorney can protect your rights and help you recover fair compensation.

Below are key situations where hiring an attorney may be the right choice.

Consider Hiring an Attorney When:

You Were Injured in an Accident

If you suffered injuries in a car accident, aviation accident, boating incident, or other serious event, an attorney can help you understand your legal options.

Consequently, medical bills, lost wages, and long-term health issues can quickly add up. An attorney can evaluate your damages and pursue compensation from the responsible party.

The Insurance Company Is Pressuring You

Furthermore, insurance companies often move quickly after an accident. They may ask for recorded statements, offer early settlements, or attempt to minimize your claim.

An attorney can:

• Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf
• Evaluate whether a settlement offer is fair
• Prevent you from saying something that could harm your case

Having legal representation levels the playing field.

Fault for the Accident Is Unclear

Sometimes multiple parties may be responsible for an accident. Therefore, determining liability can involve reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts.

An attorney can investigate the incident and build a strong case to prove who is responsible.

You Suffered Serious or Long-Term Injuries

Severe injuries often involve:

• Long-term medical care
• Permanent disability
• Loss of income
• Reduced quality of life

These cases typically involve higher damages and more complex negotiations. An attorney can help calculate the full value of your claim.

A Loved One Was Killed in an Accident

If you lost a family member in an accident, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim.

In addition, an experienced attorney can guide families through the legal process and help them pursue compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of financial support.

Speaking With an Attorney Early Matters

The sooner you speak with an attorney after an accident, the better. In fact, early legal guidance can help:

• Preserve evidence
• Identify responsible parties
• Avoid costly mistakes when dealing with insurance companies
• Ensure you meet legal deadlines for filing a claim

Many personal injury attorneys also offer free consultations, allowing you to understand your options with no upfront cost.

The Bottom Line

If you were injured, face significant damages, or are dealing with insurance disputes, consulting an attorney is often the safest choice. Finally, legal guidance can help protect your rights and ensure you pursue the full compensation you may deserve.

An experienced personal injury attorney guides you through settlement or trial. They equal the playing field when dealing with insurance companies. Hiring an Alaska personal injury attorney allows you to focus on your recovery, while your attorney focuses on holding the responsible person accountable for your injuries. Make sure you find an law firm you like and trust.

Please contact Johnson Law today to discuss your Personal Injury Law Claim: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys™

Johnson Law is recognized for legal excellence by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys™. The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys™ or AIOPIA is a trusted, impartial rating service. To clarify, it recognizes personal injury attorneys, striving for legal excellence in each state. Selected attorneys must pass AIOPIA’s rigorous selection process, based on peer nominations, thorough research, and independent evaluations.

This AIOPIA distinction speaks volumes about Johnson Law’s legal excellence, professional achievements, and passion for helping injured Alaskans and their families. Indeed, one of the most significant aspects of the AIOPA selection process involves the attorney’s relationships and reputation among clients.

National Academy Of Personal Injury Attorneys™

In addition, Doug Johnson is named among the Top 10 in Alaska by the National Academy Of Personal Injury Attorneys™ (NAOPIA). The NAOPIA uses a thorough selection process, determining the top Personal Injury attorneys in each state.

Markedly, with thousands of attorneys in each state, the NAOPIA’s rigorous, independent selection process resolves the challenge of weeding through attorneys claiming to be “the best” without basis. For the injured, finding a well-qualified attorney is imperative. Therefore NAOPIA’s process leaves no doubt which attorneys and firms provide superior knowledge, skill, and legal excellence for their clients. The NAOPIA provides the public with accurate, up to date information and qualified personal injury attorney listings in their state to represent them.

Clients Choose Johnson Law For Legal Excellence

An honor even greater than the above objective ratings for legal excellence, is that Johnson Law’s clients choose our firm with confidence. Clients are Johnson Law’s top priority. We place emphasis on achieving significant success and legal excellence without sacrificing the service and support clients need. Current and former clients describe Johnson Law, P.C.’s legal excellence with their five star reviews through sites such as Birdeye, Experience.com, and Google.

Johnson Law’s reputation for legal excellence is an impressive achievement. As a result, injured Alaskans are confident about placing their trust in Doug Johnson and the legal team at Johnson Law, P.C.

If an accident injured you or a loved one in Alaska, contact Johnson Law today. Please call us at: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Johnson Law, P.C. has been helping Alaskans for 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Experience

There are varying levels of experience among Anchorage Personal Injury attorneys. Some attorneys are new in practice, with very little real life experience. Others are not litigators and like to secure a settlement, then move on. Consequently, they may avoid court as much as possible. Look into the trial experience of the attorney before you make a decision – it matters.

Anchorage Personal Injury Claim Results

Does the law firm have Anchorage Personal Injury case results you can review? If there are no high value settlements, and the lawyer tends to represent low value cases, it may be that they are willing to grab a settlement for the client without putting in the hard work required to resolve serious injury cases. This is probably not the right firm for your case.

Fights for Maximum Recovery

Some firms prefer to settle claims early. The lawyer may have too much on his or her plate. Even more problematic is when the attorney is not personally dedicated to the injured person or the family. The fight for maximum recovery in an Anchorage Personal Injury claim requires skill, determination, and the ability to press hard on the insurance company. When there is no response, or a failure to offer meaningful compensation, it is time to file suit. Your lawyer must be willing to go the distance in seeking maximum compensation.

Develops A Personal Relationship With Clients

You don’t want a law firm that runs an “injury mill.” Many people complain that they never meet their attorney. Even worse, that only staff spoke with them during their entire case. You want personal one-on-one care from the entire staff at the firm, including the attorney representing you during an Anchorage Personal Injury case.

Johnson Law has been serving Alaskans and Alaskan tourists for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your serious injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Do I Really Need A PI Attorney? 

Some injured people don’t need a personal injury attorney. When injuries are minor, it makes little sense to hire an attorney. When injuries are serious, it usually makes good sense to at least talk to an attorney. It depends on the severity of your injuries. Because we offer a free consultation, you have nothing to lose.

A Car Accident May Change Your Life

Let’s say you wake up in a hospital and the last thing you remember is you were turning right to head home from work. You had a green light and the right of way. Another driver, not paying attention, sped through his red light and struck the side of your vehicle. Your vehicle spins and then rolls into a ditch next to the road. The emergency crew uses the Jaws of Life to extract you from the vehicle. Now, you are struggling with a brain injury, multiple lacerations and broken bones.

Fortunately, you are still alive but now you have several other issues to consider such as medical bills, lost wages, caring for your family and even vehicle repairs. Normally, the at-fault driver’s insurance covers these kind of claims but likely does not consider your best interest.

What To Expect When Choosing A PI Attorney

You should expect your attorney to educate, advise, and represent you as follows:

• Educate you about your rights, the legal basis of your claim and the damages you are able to recover.
• Advise you throughout the recovery process and help you know what to expect.
• Be an effective and honest representative for you.
• Be your voice in dealing with the defendants, insurance adjusters and other attorneys.
• Answer your calls promptly and keep you involved.

When choosing a personal injury attorney, you should also expect: (1) A higher net recovery; (2) an experienced guide; and (3) relief from worry.

What Is A Free Consultation?

A free consultation is exactly that – your initial consultation with Johnson Law cost you no money. It helps you and the attorney get to know each other. Free consultations let you know what it is like to work with our office, and what you can expect. If you are anxious about the expertise of the attorney or the expenses involved, the free consultation period is where you can find out a great deal of information about our firm.

Why Choosing A Personal Injury Attorney Is Important

Research of personal injury claims processed by the injured person, verses claims handled by a personal injury attorney. found that people who hired attorneys received between 2.5 and 3 times what is paid to people who “go on their own.”

Even after paying an attorney 33%, that means you receive almost twice as much. An experienced personal injury attorney guides you through settlement or trial. They equal the playing field when dealing with insurance companies. Hiring a personal injury attorney allows you to focus on your recovery, while your attorney focuses on holding the responsible person accountable for your injuries. Make sure you find an attorney you like and trust.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Please call Johnson Law to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Sources: Live Positively; Chambers Medical Group

Image Source: Chambers Medical Group

A PI Attorney Understands A Claims’ Potential

On the other hand, a skilled personal injury lawyer may see the potential that a claim exists … and be willing to investigate.

EXAMPLE: I was once contacted by the parents of “Jason” – a 16 years old male badly injured in a single-vehicle, roll-over crash. Jason’s 17-year-old friend, Harvey, was driving the pickup they occupied when Harvey lost control and rolled the pickup off the road. Because Jason was not wearing his seatbelt, Harvey’s auto insurance company told Jason’s family: “Jason’s injuries are Jason’s own fault. Jason should have worn a seatbelt. Your claim is denied.”

Related medical/surgical bills exceeded $129,000. Jason looks forward to 60+ years of pain and limited mobility because of this wreck. Jason’s parents didn’t know how to cover the care their son needed. It was time to call a personal injury lawyer and ask questions.

Investigating Claims

Jason’s parents asked us to investigate.

We gathered the police report, visited the scene, spoke with Harvey, measured and photographed the pickup truck, got ahold of the pickup’s “black box” and performed appropriate legal research. Initially, we confirmed: (1) that Harvey was negligent because the Rule of The Road require drivers to stay within their lane unless it is safe to leave it (13 AAC 02.085); and (2) Harvey’s insurance company was partially correct: Any part of Jason’s injuries caused by Jason’s failure to wear a seatbelt were Jason’s responsibility, not Harvey’s. See: Hutchins v. Schwartz, 724 P.2d 1194 (Alaska 1986).

A good personal injury lawyer knows that what is needed, is to determine how much of Jason’s injuries were caused by Jason’s failure to wear a seatbelt.

Knowing When To Hire An Expert

The firm hired a certified Accident Reconstruction (AR) expert to help us investigate. The investigation helped determine whether Jason’s lack of a seatbelt contributed to Jason’s injuries. The AR expert/engineer performed extensive tests, most directed to recreating the Crash that he could evaluate structural damage of the pickup. The AR expert finally concluded:

“No. Jason’s failure to wear a seatbelt in no way caused or made Jason’s injuries worse. The roof of the pickup was badly crushed in the crash. Thus, the lack of seatbelt had no bearing on Jason’s injuries. The roof was so badly crushed, it impacted the pickup’s bench seatback. Indeed, if Jason had been wearing a seatbelt, he probably would have died in the Crash.”

Because Jason’s parent’s spoke to a personal injury lawyer instead of letting the insurance company deny their son needed care, Harvey’s insurance company paid Jason full liability “Policy Limits” of $100,000. It also paid Jason full Underinsured Motorist “Policy Limits” of another $100,000. Finally, Jason’s family auto insurance paid Jason another Underinsured Motorist “Policy Limit” of $50,000. The insurance company also paid Jason’s medical bills. Jason is getting the vocational rehabilitation he needs and can look forward to a reasonably well-paying job.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Please call Johnson Law to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Image Source: 12WBOY