LegalReader.com  ·  Legal News, Analysis, & Commentary

Lawsuits & Litigation

4 Reasons to Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident


— December 5, 2024

Partnering with an attorney following an auto crash is a more viable option than handling the claim or case yourself.


Handling an auto accident case without legal representation is very risky. Insurers may attempt to offer you little compensation for your damages, leaving you with insufficient finances for vehicle repairs, medical bills, and more. You might unintentionally accept reimbursement way below what you deserve.

Considering how challenging navigating car accident laws and procedures can be, your inexperience can result in blunders, leading to your claim being denied. There’s also the risk of not valuing your claim correctly. However, hiring legal representation can lead to a favorable outcome. Discussed below are four reasons to hire a lawyer after an accident.

  1. Navigating legal complexities

If you aren’t a specialized personal injury attorney, you may not understand the laws governing car accident claims, such as the statute of limitations, determining fault, and more. A skilled lawyer, such as this Raleigh car accident lawyer, has in-depth knowledge of your region’s applicable personal injury laws. They have a comprehensive understanding of the procedures involved in filing successful accident claims. Enlisting an experienced car accident lawyer’s services increases the possibility of winning your claim and receiving maximum compensation.

  1. Comprehensive claim valuation

Following a car accident, it’s easy to focus on immediate expenses like vehicle repairs and medical bills, especially when settling your claim without a lawyer. Nonetheless, a skilled attorney will calculate the total damages to ensure accurate claim valuation, which helps maximize your settlement. They’ll factor in the following:

  • Medical bills: Immediate expenses, future medical requirements, ongoing treatments, and rehabilitation services are taken into account. Your attorney will ensure present and future medical costs are added to your claim
  • Property damage: You should be compensated for the expenses of repairing or replacing your car and destroyed personal items inside the car
  • Lost wages: If you aren’t able to work due to the injuries suffered, your lawyer will ensure you’re compensated for lost wages
  • Pain and suffering: Auto accidents usually lead to physical pain, stress, and emotional trauma, which are non-economic damages. Your lawyer will help quantify them to ensure the highest possible compensation
  1. Dealing with insurance companies

Insurers are known for offering fast, low settlements to crash victims to reduce their payouts. Insurance adjusters usually employ tactics created to minimize compensation, including downplaying your injuries’ severity. Experienced car accident attorneys are aware of the tricks insurers use and understand how to counter them successfully.

Woman on phone after car accident; image by Drazen Zigic, via Freepik.com.
Woman on phone after car accident; image by Drazen Zigic, via Freepik.com.

Insurance companies usually attempt to settle cases faster by offering amounts below your claim’s worth. Your attorney will ensure you don’t accept less than you’re entitled to and will negotiate for the highest possible offer.

  1. Expediting the claims process

Depending on your case, car accident claims can take months or years to settle. Managing your car accident claim on your own can result in mistakes and delays, elongating the process. A personal injury lawyer will collect evidence, deal with insurance companies, and file paperwork on your behalf, ensuring the case moves forward quickly. A skilled auto accident attorney knows how to present your case effectively and the evidence that can help strengthen your claim. Additionally, insurers will seriously consider your case if a reputable lawyer represents you, preventing delays.

Endnote

Partnering with an attorney following an auto crash is a more viable option than handling the claim or case yourself. A lawyer will help you navigate legal complexities associated with car accident laws while ensuring comprehensive claim valuation. Additionally, they’ll deal with insurers on your behalf and expedite the claims process.

Join the conversation!