Why hire an attorney for a car accident? Here’s why.
After a fender bender or minor collision, you may think you can handle the insurance claim yourself. But even a minor accident can result in injuries and vehicle damage that warrant hiring a personal injury attorney. Here are some of the key reasons to have legal representation after a minor car accident:
Maximize Compensation
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, you may end up with chronic pain, missed work, and medical bills down the road. An attorney will fight to get you full and fair compensation for all your losses. They know how to calculate and document every penny you deserve, from medical expenses to lost income.
A lawyer can also get compensation for hard-to-quantify damages like pain and suffering. Their demand letters and negotiations put pressure on insurers to offer top-dollar settlements. Attorneys take cases to trial if necessary. But without a lawyer, an insurance company should see that person as an easy mark for a cheap settlement.
Navigate Confusing Laws
Accident laws and the claims process are often complex. Personal injury attorneys spent years becoming experts in this field. They specialize in tort law, insurance regulations, and time limits for filing claims.
Personal injury lawyers use their expertise to build strong cases. They use their vast knowledge to maximize compensation payouts for clients. If you try to handle this alone, you could miss key deadlines or fail to meet burdens of proof. A lawyer will spot all potential defendants and legal options to go after.
Handle Paperwork
Documenting damages and dealing with insurance adjusters takes time and meticulous record-keeping. An attorney and legal staff handle everything, from gathering medical records and accident reports to corresponding with claims agents. Let your lawyer take this burden off your plate so you can focus on recovery.
Stand Up to Insurance Companies
Insurers have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize payouts. Without experienced legal representation, you could fall victim to lowball offers and pressure tactics. Personal injury lawyers level the playing field and act as skilled negotiators on your behalf. They know which arguments to make and have the resources to take cases to court if needed.
According to SuperLawyers, having an attorney increases your chances of getting 3.5x higher settlements from insurance companies. Do not let auto insurance companies exploit you during the claims process.
Objectively Assess Your Case
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, you may end up with chronic pain, lost work time, and medical bills later on. A lawyer will fight to get full compensation for all your losses. They know how to calculate and document every penny you deserve, from medical costs to lost wages.
A lawyer can also get payment for hard-to-quantify damages like pain and suffering. Their demand letters and negotiations put pressure on insurers to offer top-dollar settlements.
When Should You Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?
So when exactly should you hire a personal injury attorney after a minor car accident? Here are some signs it’s time to pick up the phone:
· You suffered any injuries, even seemingly “minor” ones like whiplash. Soft tissue injuries often worsen over time.
· You missed work because of your accident-related medical treatment or recovery time. Lost wages being to mount rapidly.
· Your vehicle sustained significant damage, such as a crushed bumper or trunk. Vehicle repairs can be quite costly.
· The other driver seems dishonest or uncooperative with their insurance company.
· You’re having trouble tracking down information from the police report, medical providers, or insurers.
· Your medical bills are more than a few hundred dollars, even with health insurance.
· You don’t feel confident negotiating a settlement yourself.
As AllLaw says, car accidents involving injuries require an attorney to get the most desirable outcome. Even less serious accidents require legal help you avoid lowball offers.
What If The Accident Was Partially Your Fault?
You will certainly want to hire a lawyer if you were even partially at fault for the accident. Shared fault and comparative negligence laws vary by state, but often reduce payouts based on percentage of fault.
A skilled attorney will fight to minimize your share of fault and ensure you receive compensation. Going it alone could mean overlooking valid arguments or evidence that reduces your liability. Don’t let insurers use a shared fault finding to avoid paying what you deserve.
How Much Does A Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
The best part about personal injury attorneys is that they work on contingency, meaning no upfront payments. The lawyer collects a fee only if they win damages for you. Their fee is a percentage (typically 33-40%) of your final settlement or award.
So hiring an attorney costs nothing up front. Their skilled representation can mean tens of thousands more dollars in your pocket from maximum compensation. A percentage fee paid to your lawyer is money well invested. With greater resources and expertise, they can substantially raise your final payout.
Get Your Free Case Evaluation
If you’re on the fence, most personal injury law firms offer free consultations and case evaluations. At Georgia Trial Attorneys, our experienced car accident lawyers provide no-obligation case assessments. We let you know your options moving forward. No risk or commitment to get expert advice on obtaining full compensation.
Do not assume that you can outsmart the insurance companies after a car accident. Even a minor collision can leave you with chronic pain, lost income, and other damages. Speak to a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and pursue maximum compensation. With free consultations and contingency fees, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.