Is It Worth Getting a Lawyer for A Minor Car Accident?
Are you wondering if you should hire a lawyer after a minor car accident? It is normal to avoid seeking legal representation, especially if you believe the damages or injuries are too minor to warrant such action. However, it is essential to contact a legal professional if you have been involved in any car accident. You probably have to deal with medical attention, possible criminal charges, and additional expenses you did not anticipate. You can check our car injury attorneys homepage for more about how a lawyer can help you with your case.
Why You Need a Lawyer
1. Liability
If you have issues determining which of the parties caused the accident, it is imperative to seek legal counsel. Lawyers are highly experienced in organizing evidence to provide clarity on who is liable while reconstructing the events that led to the injury. You may also need the services of an inspector if most of the damage was occasioned to the vehicle. If you are served with documents requiring you to avail yourself of a lawsuit about the accident, you need a lawyer to help you protect your rights and handle the case professionally.
2. Insurance Settlement
The advice of a lawyer comes in handy once you have initiated an insurance settlement. Since adjusters are known for offering insanely low numbers for long-term injuries and property repairs, you might need a lawyer to review and determine if you are getting a reasonable amount or not.
For instance, your lawyer can ask for renegotiation if the amount offered does not come close to covering all medical procedures and treatment. Lawyers analyze healthcare procedures with medical professionals to ensure they reach a favorable lump sum.
Some insurance companies dismiss claims merely because of technical issues. As such, you need a lawyer who can contest such denials and fight for your damages. Medical procedures cost a lot of money, even for minor injuries, and an insurance payment can go a long way in helping you recover.
3. Minor Injuries
What you now believe to be a minor injury could turn into a major health complication in a few months or years. Such injuries could cause loss of income and incapacitation if noticed later on. A lawyer can help you obtain all the payments you need in case of that eventuality.
Statute of Limitations
While each state has unique laws on the statute of limitations, these rules are essential in traffic accident liabilities and personal injury claims. Some states have longer limitations, while others give you a maximum of two years to seek legal redress. Irrespective of how minor your accident was, you are entitled to your rights. A lawyer can help you understand what the statute of limitations says in your state and the factors that can shorten your complaint window.
Getting a Lawyer
Don’t just hire anyone because they claim to be a lawyer. You need an exceptional attorney with significant experience handling motor vehicle claims and all possible medical procedures related to your accident. It would be best to inquire about your lawyer’s case history and their reputation in recent years. You want to make sure that the lawyer you hire is qualified and committed to seeing your case through.
Things to Avoid After a Minor Car Accident
- Do not leave the scene of an accident without informing the police about the incident. You do not want that information compromising the outcome of your case.
- Remember to take pictures of the scene, ask for witness contacts and collect accounts of what took place. The police will collect evidence, but you never know how important one photo or phone number could be to your case.
- Never admit that you are at fault. Your lawyer and the police will determine that on their own.
- Seek medical attention even if you just have a scratch. The shock and adrenaline from an accident can conceal serious internal injuries until later. You will need these documents to seek redress if you develop more serious complications down the line.
You may need a personal injury lawyer to help you understand your rights if you are the victim of a minor car accident. Lawyers also review medical documents, insurance records, and all accident reports to help them build a strong case on your behalf. If you plan on making an insurance claim. It is essential to determine the type of settlement and repayment amount first. A lawyer can help you negotiate a reasonable settlement with your insurance company or pursue litigation if it comes to it.
