What Can A Car Attorney/Auto Accident Lawyer Do For Me?
If you have been involved or injured in an auto car accident, have suffered or undergone an extensive property damage, or were blamed for the collision then you can leverage a free consultation with a car accident attorney to help prepare a legal case.
An auto accident injury lawyer is a specialist in car accident law and will be able to find possible contingencies to recover money which you may not as an individual. When you consult a car attorney, you will need to be ready to openly discuss everything related to the accident from the collision itself to any conversations or negotiations you’ve had with your insurance company.
Whether you are thinking of filing a lawsuit against the other driver or drivers involved in the accident, defend yourself from lawsuits against you, or are having problems filing or settling a claim with your insurance agency, a car accident attorney can help you. Car accidents and the resulting settlement process with your insurance company are ripe with opportunities for litigation that an experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate all the way through.
- Before you decide that you can handle even a minor lawsuit by yourself without being represented, keep in mind that the law can be complex and consequences of litigation can be serious. Hire accident attorneys are experts who know how to help you get what is fair after your car accident.
Six Situations When You Should Call a Lawyer
If you have no medical expenses and there was minimal property damage from your crash, then you may not need an auto accident lawyer. However, you should contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible if:
The fault is not clearly established: If the initial police report does not exactly describe the accident scene and puts you at fault then it’s best to seek a car accident attorney. The fault is what determines who is responsible for damages.
Serious injuries have occurred or long-term care is needed: An auto lawyer can assist you in making sure that you get the full range of damages you are entitled to. Attorneys are experts in negotiation that can significantly maximize your recovery.
The Significant damage happened to your vehicle: The at-fault party or his insurance company is responsible for paying damage done to your vehicle, or deeming it a total loss, often including the costs of alternative transportation for your usage while it’s being repaired.
The insurance company won’t provide compensation: Insurance companies will try to avoid paying more than they need to and will look for any expense that may be invalid. An attorney can ensure that the maximum recovery is achieved.
Compensation is insufficient: The first offer from the insurance company may be too low for you to fully cover the cost of your injuries and property damage. An auto accident attorney can advocate on your behalf.
The insurance adjuster is pressuring you: Adjusters have no dedicated interest to provide the full level of compensation you deserve. They attempt only to settle the case as quickly as possible.
- Technically, you can handle any type of auto accident case on your own and negotiate a settlement with the insurance company. However, there may be advantages to contacting a car accident attorney, even for a case that you consider to be open-and-shut.
When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
As it is said, the earlier the better. It is best to hire a car accident attorney early to avoid any costly mistakes. The deadline for filing personal injury claims varies from state to state. Because you may need to pay for medical bills and/or cover lost wages, the sooner you contact an attorney the better.
In general, a person should contact an attorney shortly after the accident occurs. Within seven to fourteen days of the accident but make sure you do that before reaching a settlement with the insurance company.