when to call a lawyer after a car accident

If any of the following apply to your situation, call a lawyer right away:

• Any accident that causes significant injury to you or someone else
• Any accident where fault is not clearly established
• Any crash involving another motorist, such as a pedestrian, other cars, truck, or cyclist
• Any collision in a school zone
• Any crash in a construction zone or work zone
• Anytime you disagree with the police report

More items...

Full Answer

Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

Mar 07, 2022 · As much of the evidence in a car accident case can be time-sensitive, it may be in your best interests to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. For instance, eyewitnesses can quickly forget what they saw, road markings might fade overnight, and surveillance camera footage is routinely erased.

How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit?

Apr 13, 2021 · An injury attorney will seek the maximum compensation for your damages and protect your rights along the way. Since most people are not familiar with judicial rulings and statutes, the answer to should I call a lawyer after a car accident is clearly a yes! The following is a list of steps your attorney will take on your behalf.

How can a shared fault attorney help my case?

(Get the basics on fault for a car accident.) An attorney will also be familiar with time limits (called statutes of limitations) that can bar you from filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. For instance, in many states you must file your lawsuit within two years of your car accident, or you'll lose the right to take the matter to court.

Why should I hire an injury attorney?

You need to call a car accident lawyer as soon as you can and if the situation requires the intervention of such an attorney. Some car accidents are pretty straightforward; if the other driver is at fault for a clear accident (such as hitting your vehicle from behind), chances are the driver or their insurance won't contest this fact.

What happens if you are hurt in a car accident?

For instance, if you were hurt in a car mishap, the claim would generally protest the other chauffeur’s insurer and not the other motorist. After you have filed the claim with your lawyer’s aid, an insurance coverage adjuster will be appointed to your case.

Do insurance adjusters have your best interests in mind?

It is very important that you let your lawyer manage the negotiations with the insurance adjuster. Insurers do not have your best interests in mind , but your attorney does. He will aggressively work out in your place to make sure that you do decline an unfair settlement.

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.

What to do if you are involved in an accident?

If the accident you were involved in caused any severe injury that required you to go to a doctor, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer about your legal options. Attorneys can also help in accidents that result in fatalities.

Why do you need a personal injury lawyer?

A personal injury lawyer can also help in the event an insurance company is acting in bad faith.

What happens if you don't follow the doctor's instructions?

If you do not follow the doctor’s instructions, an insurance company can argue that your injuries were not as severe as you claimed them to be.

What to do if you are not sure of your rights?

If you need an expert to review anything legal you may be confused about in general. If you generally want to seek advice in settling a claim, you can contact a personal injury lawyer to help you navigate the settlement.

Can a personal injury lawyer file a claim?

There is also often a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means that you will not be able to file a claim to receive compensation for your injuries or loss after a certain period.

What to do after a car accident?

Steps to Take After a Car Accident. Immediately after you are injured in a car accident, there are steps you can take to help you collect the compensation you need. Call 911 – Call 911 and report your accident, which helps alert both police officials and emergency medical teams to the scene of the accident. Your police report and your medical ...

How long does it take for a car accident to become apparent?

Unfortunately, some car accident injuries can take days and even weeks to become fully apparent. Always report your accident and obtain a police report. Admitting Blame – It’s human nature to apologize – even when we are not wrong. Yet after a car accident, saying “I’m sorry” can be used to show that you admitted fault for the crash.

What is minor collision?

Minor collisions that result in significant vehicle or property damage. Any injuries to a passenger in your own vehicle or to yourself. Any significant work missed by you or your passengers. Problems dealing with car repairs and insurance limits. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better.

How long does it take to recover from a car crash?

While this may seem like a lot of time, three years can pass quickly after a crash. You may be injured severely and focused on recovery and on improving your life. You may be struggling to make ends meet and trying to help your family stay out of bankruptcy after an accident.

Do you need a lawyer for a car accident?

Not everyone who has been involved in a car accident will need to seek legal representation. However, if your accident was severe or complex, then it’s necessary to call a lawyer as soon as possible, so they can begin building your case. If any of the following apply to your situation, call a lawyer right away:

How long do you have to file a personal injury claim in Arkansas?

The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. In the state of Arkansas, you only have three years to file a personal injury claim. While that may seem like a lot of time, valuable evidence can be lost or destroyed in just a few weeks.

Do insurance companies have your best interest in mind?

These insurance companies don’t have your best interest in mind—the only people they have in mind are their shareholders and reducing their liabilities. They may pressure accident victims into signing a settlement too quickly and you could end up with less than you need to cover your injuries.

When Should I Call A Lawyer After An Accident?

If there’s significant damage or an injury of any kind, it’s always worthwhile to reach out to an attorney. Here are some of the ways an experienced lawyer can help, whether or not you’re at fault:

How Can A Lawyer Help After A Car Accident?

If you’re involved in an accident, an experienced lawyer can help you protect your legal rights and make sure you’re getting complete compensation for injuries or damage. Here are some of the ways an attorney can help:

What Kind of Lawyer Should I Contact After An Accident?

If you are at fault in an accident and there are criminal charges, you need a criminal defense lawyer. Unlike in a civil suit, state attorneys from your local jurisdiction will prosecute the case.