When to Get an Attorney for a Car Accident Claim

• March 11, 2024
• Car Accidents

Car accidents are one of the most common sources of injuries and tragic deaths in the US. Physical, emotional, and financial consequences are common in a vehicular collision.

Not only does a crash affect your immediate safety, but it can also influence your future well-being and peace of mind. Therefore, you must decide if hiring a Weaverville car accident attorney will support your goals during this trying time.

If you want to achieve the best outcome in the legal process, you need a lawyer by your side, especially when you’re going through an overwhelming and stressful situation.

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When to Get Legal Representation 

Not all car accidents require the assistance of a lawyer. Minor scratches on vehicles that don’t result in bodily harm are often covered by insurance without question or an out-of-pocket payment.

However, most accidents involving any of the following require legal help and guidance.

Suffering Injuries

Around 5.4 million injuries in vehicle crashes led to medical consultations in a recent year, demonstrating how common collision-related injuries can be.

Serious injuries often come with huge medical bills and long recovery periods, including possible long-term consequences on a person’s earning ability and quality of life. An attorney can seek financial recovery for injury-related losses to help a victim move forward.

Disputes Over Liability

Sometimes, fault or liability becomes blurred or denied by insurance providers. A lawyer can simplify the claims process and negotiations by providing evidence to prove liability. They can have the necessary tools ready, such as witness statements and police reports, to prove fault.

Inadequate Settlements From Insurers

To protect their bottom lines, insurers know how to limit payouts. Accepting an initial settlement offer without legal counsel can mean losing the true value of your claim. With good negotiation skills, an experienced lawyer will advise you to reject lowball offers and fight to get the rightful amount you’re due.

Complex Legal Issues or Significant Financial Impact

If the accident raises complex legal questions or involves significant financial stakes resulting from catastrophic injuries or expensive medical care, you’ll always want a car accident lawyer’s help.

Fatalities

A car accident attorney can help loved ones through the legal process of filing a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for the loss of companionship or financial support when a loved one dies in a crash.

Timing is Everything – The Time to Act is Now 

Time is a key determinant in the outcome of any legal battle. Quick action plays a vital role in finding an appropriate legal representative.

Statute of Limitations

Each state has its own statute of limitations that puts a time frame on which individuals can file car accident lawsuits. Not acting on time may mean waiving your right to sue.

Preservation of Evidence

The fastest way to secure vital evidence is by engaging a lawyer before reports or records disappear without a trace or get damaged or compromised.

Finding the Right Car Accident Attorney: Steps to Take 

Choosing the right lawyer plays a major role in influencing the outcome of your case. Here are some steps you need to follow when selecting an attorney to represent your car accident case:

Research

Begin by researching attorneys who handle car accidents and have outstanding track records. Look at their qualifications, experience, and client references.

Initial Consultation

Many injury lawyers offer complimentary initial consultations. Therefore, use this opportunity to talk about your case and assess whether or not you feel comfortable with this person.

Discuss Legal Costs

Learn more about how much you will be required to pay. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis – meaning they do not get paid unless you win your case.

Gauge Their Interest and Resources

To ensure that the lawyer shows a real interest in your claim, make sure they have the resources needed to handle the matter effectively. They should have access to expert witnesses, including accident investigators and reconstruction professionals.

Avoiding Mistakes

You can make mistakes when you try to represent yourself. This may lead to missing important details, thereby weakening your claim and reducing the amount you can get. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process so you can avoid making mistakes.

The above benefits are worth noting, as, often, there is no fee for an initial legal consultation and review. Therefore, contracting with a car accident attorney is one of the most affordable ways to receive legal advice and direction.

As mentioned, many lawyers handle car accident cases and charge on a contingency basis, meaning they only draw their fees if they succeed. At that time, they take their percentage out of the settlement, not your pocket. So, you don’t have anything to lose and everything to gain by contacting a lawyer to handle your claim.

Consult a Car Accident Lawyer Today 

Your decision about whether or not to retain a vehicle accident lawyer may significantly affect your compensation.

In cases where there are serious injuries or complex issues concerning responsibility or huge monetary and emotional losses, consulting an injury lawyer is an absolute necessity.

You don’t have to go it alone. Having legal support assures you of a more satisfactory outcome and successful resolution to any type of accident claim.