when to get lawyer for car accident

If any of the following is true about an accident, you may want to speak with a lawyer:

• Your injuries required you to miss work.
• Someone was killed.
• You sustained major injuries or required medical treatment as a result of the crash.
• The injuries you sustained during the crash are expected to have a long-term impact on your quality of life.

Full Answer

When you should hire a car accident lawyer?

When people are the victim of a car accident, they frequently wonder if they should seek out a lawyer to handle their claim. Some do so because they fear being taken advantage of by the insurance companies. When people have serious injuries, they may opt to have an attorney handle all the heavy lifting so they can recover in peace.

Should I contact an attorney for a car accident?

Sep 26, 2017 · Car accidents that result in death should be handled by an attorney. Whether you’re a surviving loved one or the opposing driver in the accident, seek an attorney’s advice immediately. Fault. Accidents can and do occur, but when fault becomes a clear issue, it’s time for legal guidance. Construction Zone.

Do I really need a car accident attorney?

When do you need a lawyer for a car accident case? Even with a “minor” injury, it’s still worth getting a free opinion from a lawyer before you make any decisions in your case. And if the same minor injury required physical therapy, a specialist, an epidural, or other special treatment, it could be worth thousands more and a lawyer could make a big difference for you.

When to hire a lawyer for a car accident?

(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.

When to Get an Attorney for a Car Accident

If you’re involved in an insignificant auto accident, chances are you won’t need a lawyer. An example of an accident that’s insignificant is when two vehicles back into each other, at very low speeds, in a parking lot.

What You Should Do When Making Car Insurance Claims

Pain and suffering, loss of work, medical bills and further damages can occur from a single automobile accident. Property damage can occur, death or life-long injuries. If you take the wrong approach following an accident, you can have a lasting impact on your claim.

What You Should Not Do When Making a Claim

An auto accident, truck accident or motorcycle accident injury often leads people to make rash decisions, and this can lead to making big mistakes that have a major impact on any potential settlement. Here are some things not to do when filing an accident claim or discussing the incident afterwards include:

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 after a car accident?

Follow these steps after you have been in a car accident: Always contact the police. They will provide official documentation of the wreck and investigate at the scene in an attempt to determine who is at fault. Seek medical treatment for any injuries you incur.

What happens if you get in a car accident?

Car accidents may cause serious damage to your body including burns, disfigurement, permanent disability , brain injury , organ damage, and other injuries. Your vehicle may be in need of repairs or a total replacement.

What evidence is needed for a car accident?

An attorney representing you can collect evidence such as: 1 Photos of the accident scene 2 Photos of the damaged vehicle 3 Police crash reports 4 Eyewitness statements 5 Information from a vehicle’s event data recorder 6 Medical and work records 7 Electronic evidence including cell phone records 8 Manufacturer records and recall information

How long can you wait to file a claim in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, the statute of limitations is 2 years after the accident or 2 years after the last no-fault medical payment.

Where is Mark Bryant?

From humble beginnings in Paducah, Mark Bryant has risen to become one of the best-known trial attorneys in Western Kentucky. Mark graduated from the University of Kentucky's College of Law in 1973 and has been practicing law for over 45 years.

Is Kentucky a no fault state?

Since Kentucky is a no-fault state, your insurance company will pay your personal injury protection (PIP) benefit regardless of who was at fault. An experienced personal injury attorney can review accident reports and witness statements to determine the other driver’s negligence.

What can a personal injury attorney do?

Hiring a personal injury attorney can help make sure that you get all of the remedies that are available to resolve your claim. An attorney representing you can collect evidence such as: Photos of the accident scene. Photos of the damaged vehicle.

Find out whether it would be worth hiring a car accident attorney to review your case

In many cases, you do not need to file a lawsuit after a car accident. If one driver was clearly at fault and nobody has been injured, it is likely that the at-fault insurance company will give compensation without the need to go to court. So, when do you need a lawyer after a car accident?

When Do You Need A Lawyer After A Car Accident?

If you are at fault for an accident and the other driver decides to sue you, you will need a lawyer to defend you.

When Don't You Need A Lawyer After A Car Accident?

If you are at fault for an accident and nobody is suing you, there is no reason to hire a lawyer.

Conclusion: Do You 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.