so i was involved in an accident which wasn't my fault should i get a lawyer

by Prof. Efrain D'Amore DVM 6 min read

If you got into an accident that was not your fault, you have a right to hire a lawyer. You may assume that because you did not cause the accident, everything will work out in your favor, but you may need to prove that you did not commit any wrongdoing.

You are not required to hire a lawyer after a car accident that was not your fault. However, doing so can help you get compensation for which you are eligible and avoid liability for the crash.

Full Answer

Do I need an accident lawyer after a car accident?

You won’t have to deal with nearly as much financial and legal paperwork if you have a lawyer to handle it for you. That way, you can quickly put the crash behind you and get on with life. It’s important to look out for your interests even if a car accident wasn’t your fault. Finding a skilled and experienced accident lawyer is a great first step.

Do I need a lawyer if I’m not at fault?

The reasons you should get a lawyer, even though you’re not at fault, include the following: 1. You could face the risk of financial losses without an attorney 2. You could receive less compensation for vehicle damage from your insurance company without a lawyer. 3.

What to do if a car accident wasn’t Your Fault?

It’s important to look out for your interests even if a car accident wasn’t your fault. Finding a skilled and experienced accident lawyer is a great first step. If you’d like to speak to an attorney at Slack Davis Sanger to find out more about how to protect yourself, we’d be glad to answer your questions.

Should I contact the police after a car accident?

Especially after a car accident, but also after allegations of intentional harm like assault, it's important to contact the police so that they can come to the scene and take statements from all the parties involved, and speak to any witnesses. Having a police report will also help if, later, the plaintiff exaggerates or changes his or her story.

image

How do you deal with an accident that wasn't your fault?

The First Steps to Take When You Are in a No-Fault AccidentWhat to Do Immediately After the Crash. ... Collect Information on the Accident Scene. ... Call the Police. ... Record the Event in Writing at Home. ... Inform Your Auto Insurance Company About the Accident. ... You May Choose to Sue the At-Fault Driver's Insurer.More items...•

How do insurance companies decide who was at fault?

Insurance company adjusters determine fault in an auto accident after reviewing the police report and other evidence. They may also ask you and the other driver questions about the collision to try to piece together a reliable narrative of what happened.

How long does an insurance company have to investigate a claim?

about 30 daysGenerally, the insurance company has about 30 days to investigate your auto insurance claim, though the number of days vary by state.

What happens when insurance companies disagree?

Call your insurance company and ask them what they suggest you do. Many might tell you the best thing you can do is file a complaint with the other insurer while they fight for reimbursement. If that doesn't work, your next step is to contact an attorney.

What to do if you are not in a car accident?

If you got into a car accident that was not your fault, you have a right to hire a lawyer. You may assume that because you did not cause the accident, everything will work out in your favor, but you may need to prove that you did not commit any wrongdoing. While you do not need to seek legal counsel, a car accident lawyer may help you file ...

How to get started on a personal injury case?

We want to get started on your case immediately, so call us as soon as possible. Statutes of limitations may apply for personal injury lawsuits, and they vary from state to state. Call us as soon as possible to ensure your right to compensation. Call or text 800-598-7557 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.

What is Ben Crump Law?

Ben Crump Law, PLLC does not want you to worry about tackling everything yourself after an avoidable accident; we can handle the legal process for you. Focus on Your Health While We Focus on Your Case. You will want to seek medical attention following a car accident, even if you feel fine.

What should a lawyer do if you become a client?

If you become a client, a lawyer can answer all your questions, discuss your legal options, and keep you updated throughout your case. The liable party should face the consequences of acting negligently and pay for the losses you suffered.

What are the elements of negligence?

The elements of negligence include: Duty of care: The other motorist owed you a duty of care. Breach of duty of care: The other driver violated this duty of care.

How to contact a lawyer for a free consultation?

For a free legal consultation, call 800-598-7557. What a Lawyer May Do for Your Case. There is no reason you should be paying out-of-pocket expenses for property damage and injuries that someone else caused.

Can you get an economic award if you have no fault?

You may qualify for both economic and non-economic awards, depending on the losses suffered in your case. A few of these losses may include: If you suffered through no fault of your own, you may pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit to recover a settlement.

Allow You to Focus on Your Health

Car accidents can cause life-changing injuries, from burns and broken bones to brain injuries and traumatic amputations. You should not have to worry about the legal side of your case while also dealing with painful, debilitating and expensive injuries. You need the peace of mind to concentrate on healing and moving forward from your accident.

Investigate the Crash and Gather Evidence Against the Other Driver

You might know that you didn’t cause the car accident, but your word alone isn’t enough to win an insurance claim. If the other driver is refusing to admit fault or an insurance company is trying to blame you for the wreck, you will need evidence against the other driver.

Demand Maximum Financial Compensation

Even if you weren’t at fault for the car crash, the other driver’s insurance provider may try to avoid paying you the amount that you deserve. Insurance companies are notorious for putting their bottom lines over their clients. An insurer may try to undervalue your injuries and property damage to offer a settlement that is inadequate.

Protect You From Insurance Company Traps and Tactics

A car accident lawyer will know how to deal with insurance companies and talk to claims adjusters for you. This is critical, as insurance companies are known for taking advantage of inexperienced claimants. There are several defense tactics that an insurer may use against you even if you did not cause the crash.

What to do if a vehicle is involved in an accident?

If a vehicle is involved, only move it if it is creating a safety hazard or you are required to do so by law. DON'T throw away or hide any evidence. Anything that may be relevant to the accident or injury must be preserved. DON'T discuss the accident with anyone.

What to do if you are in a car accident?

If this is a car accident, be sure to get the other party's insurance information and license plate number as well. If there are any witnesses, be sure to get their contact information as well. DO take photographs. Take pictures of any damage caused by the accident, as well as any injuries, if possible.

What to do if you suspect you are injured?

If you suspect that you are injured as well, seek immediate medical treatment , not only to protect your health, but also to protect any claim you might have against others involved in the accident, or any insurance claim you might end up filing over the incident. DO report the injury to your insurance company.

What to do if you don't have an attorney?

If you have an attorney, don't speak with an insurance company representative—either yours or that of the other party. Let the attorney handle it. If you don't have an attorney, be very careful what you say. Get tips for the first call with an insurance adjuster after an accident.

image