questions about traffic law

[Bertha Venation]

We were in a bad wreck on Tuesday. A tractor-trailer changed lanes right into me and sent me spinning across all lanes, hitting other cars along the way. I wound up parallel to the jersey wall (fortunately out of traffic) and facing the wrong way. By some lucky wrinkle in the universe, we weren't hurt. Battered and bruised, but no blood, no broken bones, and, surprisingly, no airbags. But I'm afraid they might total my Camry.

The trucker claims that I changed lanes into him. Since we blamed each other, the trooper was required to cite both of us. I was cited for "changing lanes when unsafe" and the citation further states that I "contributed to the accident." That's BS, but it's going to be up to a judge to decide, because I did no wrong.

Does anyone know if it would be good to hire a lawyer for this?

Another question: if I'm found to be the one who caused the accident, will I get a point on my license?

Thanks.

[lastlib]

1. ABSOLUTELY hire an attorney!!

You think the trucker won't have one? And the insurance companies? You don't go to a gunfight armed with a toothbrush--that's what it would be like not having an attorney in this.

P.S. VERY GLAD you weren't seriously injured!

[Bertha Venation]

3. Thank you, lastlib

Thank you so much. I was partially convinced. I have zero money; that is my biggest obstacle.

[AngryOldDem]

2. ABSOLUTELY get an attorney!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DO NOT -- repeat -- DO NOT navigate this by yourself. This goes double if insurance companies become involved.

As for points, I would guess if you're found guilty, you will get points on your license. How many I don't know; probably depends on the state you're in.

Glad you all are okay!

Again -- LAWYER UP.

[Bertha Venation]

4. Thank you, AngryOldDem.

I will - if anyone will take me on for a promise to pay. Cross your fingers!

[AngryOldDem]

10. It will be worth it.

You need to protect yourself and your rights when going up against someone else and their insurers. Speaking from sad (albeit vicarious, having watched someone try to do it on is own) experience.

Again, good luck.

[2naSalit]

5. Since so many vehicles were involved

you most certainly need a lawyer, everyone else will have one.

[MrScorpio]

6. Ab-So-Freaking-Lutely, hire a lawyer! nt

[question everything]

7. Good luck! Glad you were not hurt (nt)

[elleng]

8. YES, hire an attorney.

[alphafemale]

9. Get an attorney and go see a doctor.

You can't be certain you were not injured.

[AngryOldDem]

11. Another excellent point.

Sometimes injuries can take weeks to manifest.

[alphafemale]

12. Accident attorneys will take the case without money from you.

They take a percentage of the ruling.

The sooner photos can be made of skid marks and gouges in the road the better.