When a car accident takes place, you should immediately think of the legal implications of the accident. Whether it is a minor accident causing minimal damage to vehicles and property or a major one involving injury or even death, involving a car accident lawyer early in the case could be a wise decision to help legally protect yourself.
The reason why you need a car accident lawyer is two-fold. First, insurance companies are often very reluctant to offer fair compensation for property damage, injury, or death. When they do, the amount offered could be too low to cover expenses and damages suffered.
Second, a car accident could expose you to legal liability, especially if you are partly or wholly responsible. Car accident cases tend to be especially complicated because an objective reconstruction of events has to be done to determine liability. Even when you think that you don’t need a car accident lawyer, circumstances may dictate otherwise.
When You Don’t Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident
That being said, there are circumstances when you may not need a car accident lawyer.
- Most minor collisions can be solved amicably and might not require the services of a car accident lawyer, unless you are injured.
- When there is no physical injury involved, you can work with the insurance companies to get your car fixed.
- If you are conversant with insurance policies, the different clauses used, and have the time to pursue your claim, it may not be worth consulting a personal injury lawyer because their fees will make it impractical.
- If the accident was your fault, contact your insurance company immediately. They will likely appoint their own lawyer to handle your case and represent you.
When You Need a Car Accident Lawyer
Car accident claims are a type of personal injury claim. That means there should be evidence that any harm or damage suffered was the direct result of the actions or negligence of another party.
In most cases when you sustain injuries from a car accident, it is important to seek legal advice from a lawyer. They will help you understand your options regarding compensation to cover your medical bills as well as other types of pain and suffering resulting from the accident.
Even if you are unsure of whose fault the accident was, it is still important to consult a lawyer, can explain. If the other party (driver) refuses to accept responsibility, the attorney will help with investigations to determine liability and find supporting evidence. In all these cases, you might be eligible to receive compensation after your car accident.
Beware of Insurance Companies
Insurance companies can be quite crafty when settling car accident cases because their goal is to pay as little money as possible. They can take advantage of you to get to sign away your rights or admit responsibility, thus giving up all claims of compensation. That is why you should always involve an attorney in negotiations with insurance companies after a car accident.
Conclusion
Some car accidents may be random situations, but many are caused by the fault of one particular party. It is important to realize that such accidents could have far-reaching legal and financial consequences.
If you are worried that you may not receive your fair compensation or that the parties involved are playing games, talk to a car accident lawyer immediately for expert legal advice.
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