Does The Richards Firm accept referrals?
We handle cases referred by attorneys and other professionals on a regular basis. In fact, we rely on word of mouth to help clients find us whether the recommendation comes from an attorney, a doctor, or a current or former client. If an attorney refers a case, we co-counsel cases with that attorney and make sure to keep the attorney involved at whatever level desired as the case progresses. Give us a call to discuss your potential referral.
How much is a consultation?
The initial consultation is free. Contact us today to discuss your case.
What is your fee?
We do not charge by the hour or charge retainers. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we do not charge a fee unless we recover in your case. Our fee is contingent upon that recovery, which means we charge a percentage of the monies recovered in your case. We also pay case expenses that arise while building your case.
What insurance coverage is available to me?
We will determine any and all insurance coverages available to you. In addition to public and private health insurance to help you pay your medical bills, you may be entitled to liability coverage. You may also have insurance that provides you with medical payments coverage to cover medical bills and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to help compensate you when another driver does not have any or carries too little insurance. You may also be entitled to workers’ compensation coverage or disability insurance coverage. We will review any insurance policy to determine coverages that may be available to you. We always make sure to coordinate any coverages to best protect our clients.
How long do I have to bring a claim?
In the legal world, we refer to deadlines to bring claims as statutes of limitations. Depending on the types of claim, the law provides a certain amount of time by which you must bring your claim. For instance, Ohio law provides that an injured person has two years from the date of injury to either settle or file into the proper court the bodily injury claim. These statutes change depending on the type of case, so call us now to discuss your case.
What changes are you making to your practice to cope with the coronavirus (COVID-19)?
This pandemic is incredibly scary. We have not encountered a worldwide health crisis of this proportion in years. The Richards Firm prides itself on its ability to embrace change and to adapt to whatever the practice of law requires. We are applying that mentality to this ever-changing crisis. We are currently doing our best to limit face-to-face meetings while incorporating more digital communication whether it be email, Facetime, or other means. We can provide necessary documents to clients in a number of ways that do not require in-person contact. We can also schedule appointments to travel to our clients so that they can reduce the potential exposure to the virus. At the office, we are cleaning and washing our hands regularly.
What coverages does my automobile insurance policy provide?
Automobile insurance policies can provided several different types of coverage. In the context of personal injury claims, we are most concerned about liability, medical payments or personal injury protection, uninsured-underinsured motorist, and umbrella coverages.
For a more in-depth breakdown of these coverages, click here.
What should I keep in mind when faced with a bodily injury claim?
Insurance companies, including your own, are generally not looking out for your best interests. Not only do you need to be concerned about choosing your doctors and recovering from your injuries, but you need to be aware of some potential ways that your claim can be undercut.
Can I choose which shop repairs my car after a collision?
The short answer is yes. While an insurance adjuster may tell you differently, you have every right to choose who repairs your car.
Here’s what you can expect during the repair process.
Is it up to me to choose my doctors to treat me for my injuries?
Yes. You should choose your medical providers. If you were injured or needed medical treatment for conditions caused by something other than the negligence of others, you would go to your doctors. You would rely on their referrals if you needed more specialized treatment. A personal injury claim does not change that reality despite what some may tell you.
Go to the medical providers that you trust.
How much medical treatment should I undergo after an accident?
You should rely on your medical providers to help you determine the necessary medical treatment to address your injuries. Every injured person may heal at a different rate. You may also require a different type of treatment for lingering issues.