When Is the Best Time to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

After a car accident, you may face injuries and mounting medical bills. According to the Insurance Information Institute, of the over six million car accidents in 2018, almost two million resulted in injury. Luckily, you can seek compensation after your car accident.

The first step is contacting a qualified car accident attorney. An attorney can play a significant role in your claim.

Why Do You Need a Car Accident Attorney?

The sooner you hire a car accident attorney, the better. There are many details and deadlines that go into a car accident claim, and an attorney can handle your claim in its entirety, ensuring everything is done timely.

Dealing with the Insurance Company

Handling insurance companies can be tricky. You may think they are on your side, but they are not. Insurance companies are always trying to limit liability, using anything they can against you. It is best to refrain from speaking to insurance adjusters in detail or giving any recorded statement. A car accident attorney knows exactly how to handle insurance companies.

Calculating Damages

You may not be fully aware of all the damages you are entitled to. You can seek compensation for not only medical bills, but also lost wages and pain and suffering, among other damages. A car accident attorney will be able to review your case and calculate damages to seek the compensation you deserve.

Proving Liability

Every accident is different, and some accidents may result in difficulty determining who is truly at fault. Proving liability is a crucial part of the car accident claims process, and your car accident attorney will be able to help you identify the responsible party.

Settlement Negotiations

The insurance company will likely offer a settlement, but you may not know if this is a fair amount. You may have trouble settling your claim without the help of an attorney. Your goal is to receive the compensation you need and deserve for your accident. A car accident attorney will handle all negotiations to help ensure you receive a just settlement.

Filing a Lawsuit

If you eventually find yourself needing to file a lawsuit for your car accident, this process can be challenging. Having an attorney will leave you feeling confident knowing your lawsuit is being handled correctly. A car accident attorney will be an invaluable ally in your legal battle.

How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help You

Car accident attorneys are incredibly beneficial to your claim. Some of the many things your attorney will do include:

Collecting relevant documentation;
Thoroughly investigating your claim;
Calculating damages;
Proving liability;
Interviewing witnesses;
Negotiating settlements; and
Representing you at trial, if necessary.

Your attorney is fully familiar with car accident laws and the claims process. Car accidents can bring stress and frustration, but having a car accident attorney handle your case will bring you peace of mind.

What Can Happen If You Don’t Hire a Car Accident Attorney

There is no law requiring you to hire a car accident attorney. It is entirely your choice whether to handle your claim on your own or seek legal help. However, you may be making some sacrifices if you choose not to hire a car accident attorney.

Financial Loss

A car accident attorney will help you seek full compensation for your accident and injuries. Your attorney will calculate the damages owed to you and work to obtain those damages. Failing to hire an attorney may mean being unaware of the damages you’re entitled to or accepting an unfair settlement offer, leaving you with a financial loss.

Lawsuit

If you cannot settle with the insurance company, you may need to file a lawsuit. As stated above, a lawsuit can be difficult to handle completely on your own. You can expect insurance companies and their attorneys to put up a fight to win the case, so representing yourself can pose quite a challenge.

Hire a Car Accident Attorney Today

After an accident, contact a car accident attorney. Your attorney will offer legal advice, answer all of your questions, and make the process much easier. Hiring a car accident lawyer can mean the difference between just compensation and financial burden.