Car Accidents

You’ve been involved in a car accident, but it wasn’t your fault. Nothing to worry about, right? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Although you think you may not be at fault, your perception is not the only one taken into account in a car accident claim. Statements from the other parties involved in the accident and police reports may also paint a different picture. Then, the insurance adjuster’s investigation will also need to be taken into account.

Whatever the circumstances may be, it’s extremely helpful to consult with or hire a car accident lawyer for assistance in getting through the claims process. Here’s everything you need to know before hiring an attorney.

When to Get a Car Accident Attorney

Not all car accidents require that you hire a lawyer. However, immediately consulting with an attorney after a crash might be the best thing you can do. Here’s why. Let’s say you got into a car accident and you know it wasn’t your fault. Some people assume that because they aren’t at fault everything will work out in their favor. This isn’t always the case.

In many circumstances, you will need to prove that a car accident was not your fault. A lawyer can help make sure you have what you need to prove that you were not at fault for the collision. There are also certain situations when it is imperative that you hire an attorney to represent you. These include the following:

• You were involved in a fatal car accident or one that resulted in serious injury to either or both parties
• Either you are an uninsured motorist or an uninsured motorist was driving the other car when the accident occurred
• You were involved in a hit-and-run collision
• A settlement was offered to you by the liable driver’s insurance 
• Your insurance refuses to pay for damages
• It’s uncertain who is at fault for the accident

If any scenario applies to your accident, it would be in your best interest to consult with an attorney. Established car accident lawyers sometimes offer a free consultation and do not require you to hire them for their professional legal advice. Meeting with a car accident lawyer will avoid missteps or consequences. It will also provide insight into the legal processes that most people outside of law are typically not familiar with. 

How a Car Accident Lawyer Will Help

How much do you know about the laws surrounding car accidents and insurance payouts? Unless you’ve been involved in many car accidents that have required you to go to court, probably not much.

Lawyers have the experience and legal knowledge needed to file a successful claim. They have the resources to obtain the evidence you need and prove that you were not at fault. If the case escalates and goes to court, they should also be able to represent you. In addition, statistics show that having a lawyer represent you will get you a higher settlement.

Provide Legal and Procedural Counseling

If you have any concerns about how things will work out after a car accident, you will benefit from having a professional representing your case. The best car accident lawyers know all about the laws and procedures relevant to your case.

In some instances, there are statutes of limitations involved. Your lawyer will be able to inform you about it as well as ensure you do not miss your deadline to file your claim. Your lawyer can also file a lawsuit on your behalf. This can be a huge help because of all the rules and guidelines you need to follow in order to do this. 

In the event you don’t need to file a lawsuit, your attorney will be helpful in negotiating a fair insurance settlement. Insurance companies have a lot of resources and experience. It’s good to have a lawyer in your corner.

Obtain Necessary Evidence

Negotiating an insurance settlement is a lot of work. Especially if you’ve been injured in an accident. In that case, the last thing you want to do is spend your time gathering evidence to support your claim.

Leave all of that to your attorney. They know exactly what evidence you need and how to get it. Remember, car accident attorneys deal with insurance companies all of the time. Your attorney will make sure to gather police reports, witness statements, as well as medical bills and records. They’ll also collect any employment or lost wage information. Your lawyer will organize that evidence and write a settlement demand letter which they will send to your insurance company on your behalf.

Advocate on Your Behalf

One of the most reassuring aspects of hiring a lawyer is that they become your advocate. You’ll want to have someone to defend and support you throughout the process, whether you’re filing a lawsuit or making an insurance claim. Having a lawyer on your team to advocate for you will ensure you get a fair resolution of your case.

Get You a Better Settlement

An insurance company does not have your best interests at heart. Before you sign or accept an insurance settlement, make sure you have a lawyer look over it to make sure you’re getting what you’re owed. In most circumstances, working with a lawyer will get you a much better settlement offer.

Without a lawyer, chances are you’ll end up paying for some of the cost of your car damage and medical care out of your own pocket.

Steps to Take When Car Accidents Occur

When you are involved in a car accident, there are certain actions you need to take. They may seem irrelevant or trivial if the accident did not result in injury or damage, but they are necessary in order to protect yourself.

1. First, always exchange information with the driver of the other vehicle(s). 
2. Contact law enforcement to report the accident. 
3. Second, take photographic evidence of all of the cars involved in the accident. Do this whether there is apparent damage or not.
4. Go to your physician and get checked for any injuries right away. Neurological and spinal injuries in particular can take days or weeks to show up. The sooner you get checked out, the better protected you’ll be.
5. Consult with a car accident lawyer to explore your legal options. 

Alpha Accident Lawyers – Car Accident Attorneys

Car accidents are complicated matters even when it appears there was no injury or damage involved. Don’t get stuck paying out of pocket or taking the fault for an accident you didn’t cause.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contact Alpha Accident Lawyers to schedule a free case evaluation. We can address any questions or concerns you have about your accident and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.