Getting into a car accident can be a traumatic and stressful experience. You may be worried about injuries, getting your car fixed, and dealing with insurance claims.
With so much going on, you may wonder if hiring a lawyer is necessary or when you should contact one if you do need legal help.
When is it Too Late to Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident?
This comprehensive guide covers all the key questions accident victims have about working with attorneys to get the compensation they deserve.
What to Do Immediately After an Accident?
If you have been in a crash, here are the steps you should take:
- Get medical help. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if you think you weren’t hurt, some injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not be apparent right away.
- Move to a safe location. If your vehicle is drivable and not blocking traffic, pull over to the shoulder. If it can’t be moved, get yourself out of harm’s way in case another collision occurs.
- Document the scene. Take photos of damage, injuries, vehicle positions, road conditions, weather, traffic signs/signals, etc. Get contact info for the other driver(s) and any witnesses.
- Report the crash. Alert the police if there are any injuries or significant property damage. File an accident report with the DMV within 10 days if damage exceeds $1,000.
- Consult an attorney. Before talking to insurance companies, speak to a lawyer to understand your rights. They can deal with insurers while you focus on recovery.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Some of the most common car accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries – Even mild concussions can have long-term effects
- Spinal cord injuries – range from stiffness to paralysis
- Broken bones – Especially ribs, limbs, pelvis
- Internal organ damage – From blunt force or penetrating trauma
- Whiplash – Muscle, ligament, and tendon damage in the neck
- Cuts and lacerations
- Severe bruising
- Burn injuries
Seemingly minor injuries can complicate your life for months or years after the crash. An attorney helps you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Key Things to Understand About Car Accident Claims
Here is crucial information for victims to know when deciding if/when to get a lawyer:
- The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing – typically 2 years from the crash date, but sometimes less. Anyone who misses this window loses the right to sue.
- Even “fender benders” can cause expensive medical problems over time. Treatment, physical therapy, missed work, etc. add up.
- Insurance providers often make low initial settlement offers to close cases quickly. An experienced lawyer negotiates effectively for full, fair compensation.
- Car accident lawsuits help establish legal liability when a fault is disputed. Attorneys use testimony, evidence, and crash reconstruction experts to prove negligence.
- Most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis so you don’t pay unless they secure a settlement or award. Initial consultations are free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a lawyer for any car accident?
- It depends on factors like injury severity, insurance difficulties, and the legal complexity of the case. For serious crashes, having legal counsel is highly recommended. They handle the entire process so you can focus on recovery.
When exactly should I hire a car accident attorney?
- As soon as possible after the collision. There is often important evidence at the scene that disappears quickly. Witnesses’ memories also fade over time. Immediate attorney involvement maximizes your chances of a positive legal outcome.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
- You can likely still recover damages under your state’s comparative negligence laws. Your compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault, but having experienced counsel helps ensure fairness.
How much is my car accident claim worth?
- Every case has unique circumstances, so value varies greatly. An attorney thoroughly investigates factors like medical bills, lost income, pain/suffering levels, property damage, etc. to seek full, fair compensation through settlement negotiations or trial.
Why should I hire a local car accident lawyer?
- They understand your state’s laws, insurance practices, and values of injury claims, and have good relationships with local judges/litigators. This gives accident victims an advantage during legal proceedings.
Key Considerations When Deciding if You Need a Lawyer
- Seek counsel if the crash involved wrongful death, commercial vehicles, pedestrians/bicyclists, or other complex legal circumstances
- Get advice if you disagree with the police report assessing fault
- Contact an attorney immediately if the insurance company seems difficult when you try to file a claim
- Have an initial consultation if there is major vehicle/property damage even without obvious injuries
- Speak to a lawyer if you miss even one day of work so lost wages can be properly documented and pursued
Conclusion: Don’t Wait to Get Legal Help After an Accident
Being injured in a car crash can negatively impact your life for years if victims don’t receive the compensation they deserve. Insurance companies may try to settle quickly for less than your case is worth.
The best way to avoid undervaluation and get full, fair payment is by working with an experienced personal injury attorney. By understanding legal rights and key considerations in the claims process, injured parties can make informed decisions about representation after an accident.
Don’t wait to get professional support – it can mean the difference between just getting by and being made whole again.
I hope this comprehensive guide helps address the most common questions about lawyers and legal claims after a car collision.
Please reach out to our law firm at BestLawAdvisors.com for personalized advice or to start working toward the positive outcome you deserve. Our attorneys are happy to offer a free, confidential review of your case.
