A Lyft ride that ends in a crash can turn life upside down, leaving you with injuries, medical bills, and unanswered questions. At Metro Law Offices, we help people in Chaska navigate Minnesota’s no-fault system and the unique insurance rules that apply to rideshare companies. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, our team works to protect your rights and move your claim forward. We focus on timely communication, careful documentation, and building a clear path to recovery. If you were hurt in a Lyft-related accident around Chaska, reach out to discuss your options and next steps.
Lyft collisions often involve more than one insurance policy, time-sensitive benefits, and questions about how the app status affects coverage. We guide injured people through passenger claims, claims against Lyft drivers, and claims involving other motorists in and around Chaska. Our approach prioritizes your health, wage loss, and vehicle damage, while coordinating Minnesota no-fault benefits with liability claims and, when appropriate, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. From securing medical records to communicating with adjusters, we help you avoid missteps and keep your claim organized. If you need help today, Metro Law Offices is ready to talk about your situation and goals.
Rideshare cases move quickly, and early choices can affect the value of your claim. A Lyft accident lawyer in Chaska helps you identify all available coverage, coordinate Minnesota no-fault benefits, and document injuries from the start. We manage communications with adjusters so your words are not taken out of context, and we seek evidence before it disappears, including trip data, dashcam footage, and witness statements. Our goal is to reduce stress while building a thorough claim for medical costs, wage loss, and pain and suffering where Minnesota law allows. Having guidance ensures deadlines are met and opportunities for recovery are not missed.
Metro Law Offices serves injured people across Minnesota, including Chaska and greater Carver County. Our practice is built on steady communication, careful preparation, and compassionate client service. We know the insurance landscape that surrounds Lyft claims and how app status, vehicle use, and policy limits can shape the path forward. From first call to resolution, we focus on clear expectations, prompt updates, and practical strategies designed to advance your recovery. If you need a firm that understands Minnesota no-fault, liability claims, and the rideshare claim process, Metro Law Offices is ready to help you move ahead with confidence and clarity.
Minnesota is a no-fault state, which means your own PIP benefits typically handle immediate medical bills and wage loss regardless of fault. Lyft accidents add layers, because coverage often depends on the driver’s app status at the time of impact. When the app is on, Lyft’s policy may be involved; when it is off, the driver’s personal policy may respond first. If another driver caused the crash, their liability insurance may also come into play. Determining which coverage applies requires careful review of trip data, police reports, and policy language to ensure that no available benefits are overlooked.
Effective Lyft claims rely on strong evidence. Useful proof includes the ride receipt and trip timeline, in-app screenshots, photos of the scene and vehicles, contact information for witnesses, and medical records that tie injuries to the crash. Preserving vehicle data, dashcam footage, and electronic communications can help clarify how the collision happened. It is also important to track all crash-related expenses, including mileage to appointments and out-of-pocket costs. Early legal guidance can streamline these steps, reduce confusion, and help avoid common pitfalls when speaking with adjusters. Being thorough from day one strengthens both negotiations and any future litigation.
A Lyft accident claim is the process of seeking benefits and compensation after a rideshare-related crash. In Minnesota, this often begins with PIP benefits for medical bills and wage loss, then moves to liability claims against the at-fault driver or Lyft’s insurer when applicable. Some cases also involve uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Building a claim includes proving fault, documenting injuries, and establishing the full scope of damages. Negotiations with multiple insurers may follow. If fair resolution cannot be reached, a lawsuit may be filed to protect your rights and seek the recovery Minnesota law allows.
Successful Lyft claims require identifying coverage, establishing fault, and documenting damages. Coverage analysis looks at app status, policy limits, and priority of benefits under Minnesota no-fault law. Fault analysis may involve police reports, scene evidence, and witness interviews. Damages include medical costs, wage loss, and, when legally available, pain and suffering. Early preservation of electronic trip data can be decisive. Throughout the process, timelines matter, including deadlines for benefits applications and potential lawsuits. Coordinating medical care and keeping consistent records helps demonstrate the impact of injuries. When issues arise, strategic negotiation can resolve disputes and keep your case moving.
Rideshare cases use terms that can be confusing. Understanding the language helps you follow your claim and make informed decisions. The concepts below appear frequently in Lyft matters in Chaska. They relate to how benefits are paid, which policy is responsible, and how fault affects recovery. While every case is different, these definitions can serve as a starting point for conversations with your lawyer and your medical providers. If a term is unclear, we will explain it in plain language and apply it to the specific facts of your crash so you know exactly what to expect.
PIP is Minnesota’s no-fault coverage that pays certain medical expenses and wage loss after a crash, regardless of who caused it. In a Lyft accident, PIP often comes from your own policy first, but there can be exceptions depending on vehicle use and residency. Coordinating PIP with other coverages helps ensure bills are paid on time and that you meet any thresholds required to pursue pain and suffering. Keeping complete medical records and submitting timely forms are important for smooth processing. If questions arise, we help clarify eligibility, provider billing, and how PIP interacts with liability and UM or UIM claims.
UM and UIM are safety nets when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough coverage to pay for your losses. These benefits may come from your own auto policy and can apply in Lyft-related crashes depending on the circumstances and policy language. Making a UM or UIM claim requires careful documentation and attention to contract terms, including notice requirements. Because UM and UIM can overlap with rideshare coverage, we assess all available policies to prevent gaps. Properly coordinating these benefits can make a substantial difference in your overall recovery and long-term financial stability after a collision.
Bodily Injury Liability Coverage pays for injuries when a driver is legally responsible for a crash. In Lyft cases, this might be the Lyft policy, the driver’s personal policy, or another motorist’s insurer. Determining which policy applies depends on app status and fault. Establishing liability typically involves police reports, eyewitness statements, photographs, and, when necessary, expert analysis such as crash reconstruction. We work to identify all available limits and to present strong documentation of your injuries, treatment, wage loss, and how the crash has affected daily life. Clear proof helps move negotiations forward with insurers and defense counsel.
Comparative fault is the rule that assigns responsibility among the people involved in a crash. Your recovery can be reduced if you share a percentage of fault for the collision. Insurers sometimes argue comparative fault to lower what they pay. We push back by securing evidence that accurately reflects what happened, including trip data, vehicle damage patterns, and credible witness accounts. Minnesota’s comparative fault framework can be complex, especially when multiple vehicles or rideshare drivers are involved. Presenting a clear, fact-based narrative is essential to protect your interests and help you pursue fair compensation under state law.
After a Lyft crash, some people try to handle claims alone, some seek limited help, and others choose full representation. A do-it-yourself approach may work for minor injuries but often comes with missed deadlines or incomplete documentation. Limited help can assist with forms and letters, yet may fall short when liability is disputed. Comprehensive representation brings investigation, strategy, and negotiation under one roof, which is valuable when multiple insurers are involved. The right path depends on injury severity, fault disputes, and your comfort managing insurers. We can discuss all options and tailor our involvement to your needs.
A limited approach can be practical when injuries are minor, liability is uncontested, and damages are easy to verify. In a straightforward Chaska fender-bender with prompt medical evaluation and brief treatment, focused guidance may help you submit records, coordinate PIP benefits, and communicate with a single adjuster. The goal is efficient resolution without overcomplicating the process. Even in simple cases, however, it helps to confirm which policy applies and to ensure your medical documentation connects injuries to the crash. If the claim becomes adversarial or symptoms worsen, shifting to comprehensive representation may be the better choice.
If no one is injured and the claim is limited to vehicle repairs, a limited approach may be enough. We can help you present repair estimates, photographs, and proof of diminished value when appropriate. Because rideshare vehicles sometimes involve commercial policies, confirming coverage is still important. Insurers may request recorded statements; consider seeking guidance before agreeing to any broad questioning. While property damage claims are usually resolved faster than injury claims, documentation and timely responses remain essential. If an insurer delays, disputes fault, or undervalues the loss, our firm can step in to negotiate or escalate as needed.
When drivers point fingers or several vehicles are involved, facts can get tangled, especially with rideshare timelines and app data. A comprehensive approach allows for a full investigation, including obtaining electronic trip records, analyzing vehicle damage, and interviewing witnesses. We coordinate statements carefully to avoid inconsistencies and work to counter arguments that shift blame unfairly. Because comparative fault can reduce recovery, developing a strong, evidence-based narrative is essential. With multiple insurers in play, a coordinated strategy helps keep your claim on track and ensures that no coverage option is overlooked during negotiations or potential litigation.
Significant injuries require careful planning, from documenting specialized care to projecting future costs and wage loss. A comprehensive strategy assembles medical opinions, tracks ongoing therapy, and captures the ways injuries limit daily activities. This helps support claims for pain and suffering when Minnesota law allows. We also evaluate whether UM or UIM coverage applies and address liens from health insurers or providers. Early coordination reduces gaps in proof and prevents missed deadlines. Complex damages deserve a thorough presentation so that negotiations reflect both current and future needs. Our goal is a resolution that supports long-term recovery and stability.
Comprehensive representation brings all the moving parts of a Lyft claim into one coordinated plan. We secure and organize evidence, align medical documentation with legal standards, and map every applicable policy, including PIP, liability, and UM or UIM. This structure helps keep deadlines in view and ensures that important steps, like preserving trip data or requesting dashcam footage, happen on time. With a full picture of your damages, negotiations become more targeted and productive. The result is a process that is less chaotic, more transparent, and designed to position your claim for a fair resolution.
A comprehensive approach also gives you a single point of contact for updates, questions, and strategy. Instead of juggling adjusters and competing requests, you can focus on healing while we handle documentation and advocacy. When disputes arise—over fault, medical necessity, or valuation—we respond with facts and authoritative support. If settlement discussions stall, we are prepared to move forward with litigation to protect your rights. Throughout the case, we adapt to new information and adjust the plan accordingly. This flexible, all-in method is designed to secure the best outcome available under Minnesota law.
In rideshare cases, several policies may apply, each with different rules and priorities. We identify every available source of coverage, from your PIP benefits to Lyft’s policy and, when appropriate, UM or UIM. By coordinating benefits, we help avoid gaps and minimize delays in payment of medical expenses and wage loss. Our team tracks deadlines, handles forms, and communicates with adjusters so you do not have to repeat information. When insurers dispute responsibility, we present evidence that clarifies coverage and fault. This coordinated approach strengthens your position and supports a more complete and timely financial recovery.
Valuing a Lyft case requires more than medical bills. It includes understanding how injuries affect work, family, and daily life. We gather treatment records, provider opinions, and proof of wage loss, then connect those facts to Minnesota legal standards. We also obtain and analyze ride data, photos, and witness statements to support fault. With clear proof of both liability and damages, negotiations become grounded in facts rather than guesswork. If an insurer undervalues your claim, we have the documentation to respond effectively and, when necessary, to pursue litigation that reflects the full measure of your losses.
Save everything tied to your Lyft trip and the crash. Screenshot the app showing your driver’s name, vehicle, route, and timestamps. Photograph vehicle positions, license plates, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Ask witnesses for names and contact information. Request the incident or case number from responding officers and keep copies of any reports when available. Get medical care promptly, even if symptoms seem mild, and follow through with recommended treatment. These steps create a reliable record that supports your claim, helps confirm coverage, and prevents disputes about what happened and how you were injured.
Detailed medical documentation is the foundation of a strong claim. Keep a log of appointments, prescriptions, therapy sessions, mileage, and out-of-pocket costs. Save receipts and bills, and ask providers to note work restrictions, functional limits, and treatment plans. If you miss work, gather wage information and statements from your employer. Consistency matters, so explain all symptoms at each visit. When insurers question medical necessity, having organized records makes it easier to resolve disputes. This level of tracking also helps measure long-term needs and ensures that any settlement accounts for future care and the full impact on your life.
Local counsel understands how Lyft claims are handled in and around Chaska, including how Minnesota no-fault and liability coverage interact. A lawyer coordinates benefits, manages communications with adjusters, and helps prevent common mistakes that can undermine your case. You gain an advocate who gathers evidence, preserves trip data, and presents your injuries in a way that resonates with insurers and, if necessary, with the court. When stress is high, having a legal partner frees you to focus on recovery. Our firm provides clear guidance so you know what to expect and how each step supports your goals.
Complex claims benefit from strategy and momentum. Lyft cases may include overlapping policies, competing versions of events, and evolving medical needs. We analyze coverage, identify deadlines, and build a narrative supported by records and credible proof. Because we work regularly with Minnesota insurers, we know the questions they ask and the documents they rely on. If negotiations stall, we are prepared to advance your claim using tools available under Minnesota law. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and in control, answering questions quickly so decisions are made with confidence and your voice remains central to the outcome.
People seek help for Lyft accidents in many different situations. Passengers are injured when another driver runs a light or when a Lyft vehicle is rear-ended near a busy intersection. Drivers in their own vehicles are hit by a Lyft car that makes an unsafe turn or merges without signaling. Pedestrians or cyclists can be struck by a rideshare vehicle navigating pickups or drop-offs. In each scenario, coverage questions arise and timelines matter. We step in to secure evidence, coordinate benefits, and protect your claim from the earliest stages so that you can focus on healing and stability.
Passengers often face unique hurdles, including determining whether Lyft’s policy, the driver’s personal insurance, or another motorist’s insurer is responsible. We start by preserving app data, ride receipts, and communications with the driver, then obtain the police report and witness information. Medical documentation is critical to link injuries to the crash and to support both no-fault benefits and any liability claim. Our team coordinates billing and wage loss forms to avoid delays. If fault is disputed, we work to present a clear story supported by credible evidence. The aim is a fair recovery that reflects your full losses.
Collisions with a Lyft vehicle can be confusing, particularly when the driver’s app status affects coverage. We investigate promptly, obtain trip records where possible, and gather proof on fault, vehicle damage, and injuries. Minnesota no-fault benefits may handle early medical bills, but additional compensation could be available through liability or UM and UIM coverage. We help you avoid conflicting statements and coordinate communications with multiple insurers. If your vehicle requires repairs or you need a rental car, we assist with documentation to speed the process. Throughout, we focus on getting your life back on track.
When a pedestrian or cyclist is hit by a rideshare vehicle, injuries can be significant and the path to recovery complex. We take immediate steps to secure scene photos, surveillance footage if available, and statements from witnesses. Medical care and a consistent treatment record are vital to show the extent of harm and future needs. We evaluate all available coverage, including possible PIP benefits, the Lyft policy, and any applicable UM or UIM. Our team communicates with insurers on your behalf and works to resolve liability disputes with credible evidence. The goal is a full and fair compensation plan.
Choosing the right firm means choosing a team that listens, explains your options, and takes action. At Metro Law Offices, we prioritize accessibility and clear updates, so you always know what is happening with your case. We are meticulous about evidence, from ride data to medical records, and we present that proof in a way that supports your goals. Our focus is on practical solutions, respectful communication, and steady advocacy. When questions arise, we respond quickly, helping you make informed decisions with confidence and clarity at each stage of the claims process.
We understand how rideshare coverage interacts with Minnesota’s no-fault rules, and we are familiar with the insurers and processes that shape Lyft claims in and around Chaska. Our approach is thorough yet efficient, designed to move your case forward without unnecessary delay. We will coordinate with your providers, collect the documentation insurers require, and address disputes with evidence and professionalism. Whether your claim resolves through negotiation or requires litigation, we stay focused on your long-term wellbeing and the fair value of your case under Minnesota law.
From the first conversation, you will receive a straightforward assessment and a plan for gathering the records and evidence your claim needs. We offer a free consultation and clear fee discussions before any work begins. If you decide to move forward, we begin preserving evidence immediately and take over communications with insurers so you can concentrate on recovery. Our goal is to reduce stress, protect your rights, and pursue the best available outcome. When you are ready, call 651-615-3322 to talk with Metro Law Offices about your Lyft accident case.
Our process is designed to be clear and proactive. We begin by listening to your story, reviewing coverage, and mapping out next steps. Then we gather and preserve evidence, including app data, photos, medical records, and witness statements. We coordinate benefits, keep deadlines in view, and communicate with insurers for you. When negotiations begin, we present a well-documented claim that reflects your injuries and losses. If settlement is not fair, we discuss litigation and continue advocating for you. At every stage, you receive updates and guidance so you can make informed choices with confidence.
During the initial consultation, we learn about your crash, injuries, medical care, and concerns. We review available insurance policies, discuss Minnesota no-fault benefits, and outline how Lyft’s coverage may apply. With your permission, we begin preserving evidence and notifying involved insurers. We also explain what to expect in the coming weeks, including communications from adjusters and providers. You will leave with a clear understanding of the plan and how to reach us with questions. This early organization sets the stage for a strong claim and helps prevent missed opportunities or delays in benefits.
We start by listening closely to what happened and how the crash has affected your life. Then we review policy documents to understand PIP benefits, possible Lyft coverage, and any UM or UIM protection. We identify urgent tasks, like submitting no-fault applications or requesting trip data before it becomes difficult to obtain. We also address immediate needs, such as coordinating care and making sure bills are routed correctly. With your input, we craft a roadmap that balances quick action with thoughtful strategy, always keeping your goals front and center.
Evidence can fade fast in rideshare cases. We secure in-app screenshots, ride receipts, and communications with the driver, and we request relevant data from Lyft when appropriate. We collect photographs, witness information, and police reports, then organize these materials for easy reference. Medical documentation begins immediately, linking your symptoms to the crash and building a record of treatment and restrictions. By acting quickly, we reduce room for speculation and protect against arguments that blame delays or gaps in proof. Strong preservation early on supports better negotiations and prepares your case for any next steps.
The investigation phase clarifies fault and quantifies damages. We analyze the crash sequence, evaluate vehicle damage, and obtain statements that support your account. At the same time, we collect medical records, wage information, and documentation of daily limitations. We confirm which policies apply and how coverage priority works under Minnesota law. With this foundation in place, we assemble a comprehensive claim package that explains liability and demonstrates the full scope of your losses. This preparation encourages meaningful negotiations and keeps your case ready for litigation if that becomes necessary.
Establishing fault requires attention to detail. We compare statements with physical evidence, evaluate road design and traffic controls, and consider whether distracted driving or unsafe speeds played a role. In rideshare cases, trip data and timestamps may clarify movements and timing. We anticipate comparative fault arguments and address them with objective proof. When multiple vehicles are involved, we separate issues so each insurer understands its potential responsibility. This careful analysis builds credibility, limits speculation, and sets up negotiations that focus on facts rather than assumptions or unsupported theories.
We work with your providers to obtain complete and consistent records that tie injuries to the crash and explain treatment plans. We document wage loss, missed opportunities, and the effect of injuries on everyday activities. If future care is likely, we gather opinions that help explain ongoing needs. We also track mileage, prescriptions, and out-of-pocket costs so no expense is overlooked. With a full damages picture, negotiations can address both immediate and long-term impacts. This evidence-driven approach supports fair valuation and positions your claim for a strong resolution under Minnesota law.
With liability and damages documented, we present a clear demand to all responsible insurers. Our negotiation strategy relies on evidence, not generalities, and we address objections with records and timely responses. If settlement offers undervalue your claim, we discuss filing suit and outline what litigation would look like, including timelines and potential outcomes. Throughout, we remain accessible, provide regular updates, and help you weigh options at each juncture. The focus stays on achieving a resolution that reflects your losses and supports your long-term recovery.
We negotiate with every insurer that may be responsible, coordinating PIP, liability, and UM or UIM claims where applicable. Our demands explain fault clearly and document injuries with medical records, provider opinions, and proof of wage loss and daily limitations. When adjusters raise questions, we respond with evidence, not guesswork. We also consider liens and subrogation rights to prevent surprises at settlement. This organized approach keeps the conversation focused on facts and encourages fair offers that account for both present and future needs.
If an insurer will not negotiate fairly, we discuss moving forward in court. Litigation can bring additional tools for gathering evidence and may help resolve disputes over fault or damages. We prepare filings that present your case clearly and continue exploring settlement opportunities along the way. Throughout the process, we explain each step, answer questions, and respect your decisions about how to proceed. Our goal is to protect your rights and seek the best available outcome under Minnesota law, whether through a negotiated agreement or a result secured in court.
Prioritize safety and medical care, then document the scene. Call the police, take photos of vehicle positions and damage, and collect witness names. Screenshot your Lyft trip details, including the driver’s name, vehicle, and timestamps. Seek prompt medical attention even if symptoms are mild, and follow all recommendations. Early treatment creates a record that connects your injuries to the crash. Notify your insurer about the accident and consider speaking with a lawyer before providing recorded statements. A lawyer can help preserve evidence like app data and dashcam footage and make sure all potential insurers receive timely notice. Quick action helps protect your claim and avoids disputes later.
Insurance responsibility depends on who caused the crash and the Lyft driver’s app status. Minnesota no-fault PIP benefits typically address initial medical bills and wage loss. Liability coverage may come from the at-fault driver’s policy, Lyft’s policy, or both, depending on the facts. Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can also apply in certain scenarios. Determining which policy applies requires reviewing the trip timeline, police report, and policy language. An attorney can coordinate the claim across multiple carriers, address coverage disputes, and ensure that every available benefit is considered. This coordination reduces delays and supports a more complete financial recovery.
Yes, Minnesota’s no-fault system generally provides PIP benefits for medical bills and wage loss, though the source and priority can vary. If you own a vehicle, your own policy may provide benefits even if you were a passenger. If you do not have a policy, other sources may apply depending on residency and vehicle ownership. Because Lyft accidents can involve multiple policies and unique eligibility rules, it is important to submit forms correctly and on time. A lawyer can help ensure the right insurer is billed, the documentation is complete, and deadlines are met so that your benefits are not delayed or denied.
Approach recorded statements with caution. Insurers often record interviews and may use portions of your words to limit a claim if statements are unclear or incomplete. It is reasonable to request time to review your records or to consult with an attorney before agreeing to an interview. If you decide to give a statement, keep answers accurate and concise, and avoid speculation. Having a lawyer prepare you, or participate, can reduce misunderstandings and help ensure the focus stays on verifiable facts. Clear communication protects your rights while still allowing the claim to move forward efficiently.
Minnesota law sets deadlines for both no-fault benefits and liability claims, and those timelines can differ. Some claims require prompt notice and specific forms to be completed, while others relate to filing a lawsuit within a set period. Waiting too long can limit your options or bar a claim entirely. Because rideshare matters may involve several policies, it is wise to speak with a lawyer early. We identify applicable deadlines, help you submit required documents, and preserve evidence. Taking action now protects your rights and creates options if negotiations do not resolve your claim.
If the Lyft driver’s app was off, their personal auto policy may be the primary coverage for liability, while your own PIP benefits could still handle early medical bills. If another driver caused the crash, that driver’s policy may be responsible. Every situation turns on specific facts and policy language. We investigate app status, request trip records when appropriate, and review available policies. If coverage is disputed, we present evidence and legal support to clarify responsibility. Our goal is to ensure that the correct insurer steps up and that you receive the benefits and compensation available under Minnesota law.
In Minnesota, recovery for pain and suffering may be available when certain legal thresholds are met. These thresholds relate to the nature and extent of injuries and are designed to limit claims for minor harms. Meeting them requires strong, consistent medical documentation that ties your condition to the crash. We work with your providers to build a clear picture of your injuries and their impact on daily life. If thresholds are met, pain and suffering can be pursued alongside medical bills and wage loss. Careful documentation and credible evidence increase the likelihood of a fair result.
Fault is determined using police reports, photographs, physical damage patterns, witness statements, and sometimes electronic data from the rideshare app. Each piece contributes to a timeline that explains how and why the collision occurred. In complex cases, additional analysis may be helpful to resolve conflicting accounts. Comparative fault may be argued by insurers seeking to reduce what they pay. We counter by presenting organized, objective proof and a clear narrative. Establishing fault accurately is essential to ensuring the right insurer pays and that your recovery reflects the full scope of your losses.
Helpful documents include your Lyft ride receipt and screenshots, police reports, photos of the scene and damage, medical records and bills, wage information, and any communications with insurers. A journal of symptoms, missed activities, and out-of-pocket expenses can also support your claim. Organizing these materials allows insurers to evaluate liability and damages more quickly. If something is missing, we help you request it or secure it from the appropriate source. Complete documentation strengthens negotiations, avoids delays, and positions your case for a fair settlement or, if necessary, litigation.
Metro Law Offices combines attentive service with thorough preparation. We understand Minnesota no-fault rules, the insurance issues specific to rideshare cases, and the practical steps that move claims forward in and around Chaska. You will receive clear guidance, steady communication, and advocacy tailored to your needs. From preserving app data to coordinating benefits and negotiating with multiple insurers, we handle the details so you can focus on recovery. If a fair settlement is not offered, we discuss litigation and continue pursuing the best available outcome under Minnesota law. Call 651-615-3322 for a free, confidential consultation.
