Washington, DC -- HALT-An Organization of Americans for Legal Reform today released After the Crash: What You Can Expect Next, a brochure that explains what survivors and family members of victims can do to protect their legal rights after an airline disaster. The brochure is available, free of charge, through HALT's web site, www.halt.org.

Each time an airliner crashes, you can expect a standard set of responses from:

• Lawyers specializing in crashes are now required to wait 45 days before contacting survivors or family members of air crash victims. Learn why lawyers are so eager to sign-up clients.
• Airline representatives have been known to approach survivors and victims' families after a crash. Find out why their friendly behavior might not be so friendly after all.
• Insurance companies representatives will urge you not to file a lawsuit "precipitously." Learn why it's important to listen to them, but not to give them any personal information.
• The media will begin contacting survivors and victims' relatives for interviews as soon as they have the passenger list. Learn how to protect your rights if you decide to talk to them.
• Federal, state and local police will be among the first on the scene. Learn what their specific role is and why you need to cooperate with them.
• The Red Cross and other emergency volunteers are there to help you and to provide support services to the rescue workers. Learn more about what they do.

After the Crash explains what each agency and individual does, and what you can do to protect your legal rights if you or a family member are ever involved.

Founded in 1978, HALT - An Organization of Americans for Legal Reform is the oldest and largest consumer legal reform group in the U.S. with 50,000 members. HALT is dedicated to helping all Americans handle their legal affairs simply, affordably and equitably. HALT is known for its extensive collection of self-help books and its advocacy to hold the legal profession accountable.