what lawyer do i need after a car accident

by Carmel Emmerich PhD 5 min read

A personal injury lawyer is always going to be far better at settling a car accident case than a layperson would be. A good lawyer knows how much the case is worth and knows how to work the case and conduct the negotiations in order to arrive at the best outcome for the client.

When do you need to hire a car accident lawyer?

When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

  • FLORIDA. Retaining a competent and experienced auto accident attorney as soon as possible is vital if you are injured in a wreck.
  • ALABAMA. When do you need to hire an auto accident lawyer? ...
  • ARIZONA. ...
  • CALIFORNIA. ...
  • GEORGIA. ...
  • ILLINOIS. ...
  • INDIANA. ...
  • LOUISIANA. ...
  • MASSACHUSETTS. ...
  • NORTH DAKOTA. ...

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When to get an attorney for a car accident?

The following are only some ways an attorney can assist you:

  • Communicating with the insurance companies of the liable parties
  • Obtaining evidence of liability and damages
  • Negotiating for the settlement you need and deserve
  • Negotiating with lien holders
  • Determining when it’s time to file a personal injury lawsuit
  • Handling the litigation process to reach a settlement agreement

How to find the right car accident attorney for You?

Tips on Working with Your Lawyer

  1. First, the lawyer should have a great reputation. Research reviews of lawyers by other clients to see how many other people have had success with him or her.
  2. If you are the one filing the lawsuit, find a lawyer with the experience and knowledge to handle your case. ...
  3. Ask the lawyer for a summary of his or her practice in these types of cases. ...

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Do I need an attorney for a car accident?

You are not required to hire an attorney after a car accident. In most cases, in fact, it is unnecessary. Start by filing an insurance claim and proceed from there. If you are offered a settlement that you feel is unjustly low, you should hire a lawyer to negotiate on your behalf.

What are the causes of car accidents?

What is distracted driving?

Can you be held liable for an auto accident?

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How can an attorney help you in a car accident?

Perhaps the most important way an attorney can help you with your car accident case is by being your advocate. This means that your attorney acts on your behalf and for your benefit throughout the entire claims process (negotiating with the automobile insurance company) and even in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary. He or she will be your champion before the judge, jury and other attorneys, making sure that your side of the story is heard and that you are compensated for all of your losses.

What does it mean to hire a personal injury attorney after a car accident?

Hiring a personal injury attorney to represent you after a car accident means you will have a professional working for you -- one who is extremely knowledgeable about the relevant laws and procedural rules that may affect your case.

How long do you have to file a lawsuit after a car accident?

For instance, in many states you must file your lawsuit within two years of your car accident or be forever prohibited from filing your lawsuit. An attorney will also be able to inform you about any special exceptions to the statute of limitations -- for minors, for example.

Can an attorney file a lawsuit?

Your attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf and will know how best to mitigate any possible defenses raised by the other side. In addition, once your case gets under way, your lawyer will play an invaluable role in preparing your case for trial -- and even going to trial if your case doesn't settle.

Do you need an attorney for a car accident?

Usually, car accidents in volving serious or long-term injuries require an attorney to get the most desirable outcome.

Can an attorney do a car accident settlement?

After you have been in a car accident, taking on this time-consuming work may be the last thing you want to do, assuming you're able. An attorney can do it all for you.

What a Car Accident Lawyer Can Do for You

When you get into a car accident and need to file a lawsuit against a negligent driver, that person’s insurance company will be the one representing them in your lawsuit. The insurance company would be the one to pay out your claim; and, insurance companies have money.

Signs a Car Accident Lawyer is Right for You

A car accident injury lawyer may help you by serving as the legal advocate you need. While you focus solely on your health and wellbeing, your attorney can fight to protect your rights and help you collect maximum compensation.

Signs You May Not Need a Car Accident Attorney

While we want to do everything possible to help every car accident victim, sometimes our services simply aren’t necessary. The following circumstances describe when you may not need a lawyer to help you.

Partner With an Aggressive Car Accident Lawyer Today

After a car accident, you may not know whether you need to hire a lawyer. It can all depend on several factors unique to your situation. In many cases, however, it makes sense to work with a car accident injury attorney. Your lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation that helps you stay out of financial hardship.

1. Serious Injury

Even if your car accident occurred several months ago, you should still talk to a lawyer if you’ve been injured. In general, you should report your car accident within 24 hours.

2. Unable to Work

Auto accident injury lawyers can also help you file a claim for workers’ compensation. You’ll need to provide proof that you were unable to work and you may have to get a notarized document from your job.

3. Problems With Police Report

The best thing about hiring a car accident defense attorney is that they can help correct police reports. If you review the information and realize that the other motorist is lying, you should contact an attorney right away.

4. Issues With the Insurance Company

Insurance companies will always try to “lowball” you after an accident. They are always looking to save money and can be reluctant to settle claims.

What are the rules for insurance?

If the following is true of an accident, it is unlikely that the insurance company will lowball you: 1 There was only property damage, and nobody was hurt or killed. 2 You suffered minor or no physical injuries. 3 The settlement you deserve is relatively small.

Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

You are not legally obligated to hire a lawyer after a car accident. The only reason you need a lawyer after a car accident is if you are being sued or decide to sue the other driver.

What are the causes of car accidents?

There are many different causes of car accidents. Some of these may include: 1 Distracted driving (i.e., texting while driving, etc.) 2 Drunk driving 3 Bad weather and driving conditions 4 Mechanical failure of car or car parts 5 Disobeying traffic laws 6 Unpredictable circumstances (such as a falling boulder, etc.)

What is distracted driving?

Distracted driving (i.e., texting while driving, etc.) Unpredictable circumstances (such as a falling boulder, etc.) Depending on the cause of the accident, either party may or may not be held liable for damages or injuries.

Can you be held liable for an auto accident?

Depending on the cause of the accident, either party may or may not be held liable for damages or injuries. Proving fault in an auto accident claim can often be difficult and may require the assistance of a legal professional.

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