Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am in an auto accident?
Write down the name, address, phone number, date of birth and operator's license number of the other driver. Write down the name, address and the insurance company of the owner of the other car, the tag number and policy number. Give your name, address, operator's license numbers, tag number, name of registered owner and insurance company. Do not discuss the accident with anyone or blame anyone, including yourself. Call the police and, if anyone is injured call rescue personnel. Note the name, work and home address and phone number of anyone who claims to have been a witness to the accident. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Get legal advice from an experienced firm such as Alexander & Cleaver about your rights and how to process your claim.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Each state has a statute of limitations that dictates how long you have to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. For the states that our firm practices in, below is general information on the statute of limitations. There are many caveats and nuances such as the discovery rule, so it is best to call our firm to discuss the specific details of your case.
Maryland - approximately three years for personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Virginia - approximately two years for personal injury and wrongful death cases.
District of Columbia - approximately three years for personal injury cases and one year for wrongful death claims.
Pennsylvania - approximately two years for personal injury and wrongful death cases.
I will be filing suit on behalf of my spouse. How does this work if (s)he cannot participate in the case?
If your spouse is very sick or has passed away, our attorneys will work closely with you and will compile all evidence so that your spouse's case is accurately presented. Often we do not need testimony from victims themselves, but rather from families, co-workers, accident witnesses, physicians, expert witnesses, accident reconstruction experts, and other third parties.
What will my legal fees amount to?
Alexander & Cleaver takes all accident, work injury and other personal injury and wrongful death cases on a contingency basis. What this means is that you pay no legal fees unless we win compensation on your behalf. We provide a free, no-obligation consultation about your case so that you may learn about all of your legal options.
