Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident?

After a collision, feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next is normal. As you navigate insurance claims, time off work, and doctor’s appointments, you may wonder if you should hire a car accident lawyer to help you. 

A car accident lawyer probably isn’t necessary to help with your claim if: 

• Your accident didn’t cause significant damages
• You suffered only minor injuries
• Fault is not being disputed
• You are comfortable handling paperwork and negotiations
• Your damages are easy to calculate, and the insurance company’s offer is fair
• Your case is otherwise straightforward

However, if any of the following apply to you or your case, you might want to consult with a car accident attorney: 

The Car Accident Accident Caused Serious Injury or Death

The more serious your injuries, the more your case may be worth. It may also make it harder to calculate the full value of your damages. Additionally, the insurance company might invest more time and effort to deny liability, shift blame, or undervalue your claim. 

If your accident caused serious injury or death, the stakes are higher. Your attorney may work with experts to prove who was at fault and the severity of your injuries. They will also assess all the losses you suffered and negotiate a fair settlement agreement. 

You Are Facing Long-Term Complications or High Medical Bills

If you believe your accident will leave you with long-term impairment, or you are already facing substantial medical bills, you may want to consult with a lawyer. Your injuries may be more serious than you think. 

Even a seemingly minor accident can result in chronic pain, limited range of motion, and mobility issues. A lawyer will ensure that the severity of your injuries and the full extent of your losses are known before settling. 

The Insurance Company Denied Your Car Accident Claim

It’s best to speak with a lawyer when your claim is denied or the insurance company argues that your policy, or the at-fault party’s policy, does not cover the accident. Your lawyer can review the policy, appeal an unfair denial, and negotiate on your behalf. 

You Are Being Offered a Lowball Settlement

Insurance companies often try to offer a low initial settlement to save money and hope you’ll accept it quickly. They are more likely to do this when the injured person does not have a lawyer. A lawyer can help you by evaluating the offer and negotiating for you to reach a fair agreement. 

You Are Being Blamed for the Car Accident or Liability Is Disputed

When liability is disputed or the insurer claims you contributed to the accident, consulting with an injury lawyer is crucial. The money you recover may be reduced by your share of fault, or you may be denied any compensation, even if your contribution was slight. How shared liability is handled depends on your state’s contributory or comparative negligence rules. 

A lawyer will help you by gathering evidence to fight back against efforts to blame you and ensuring fault is assigned fairly. Your lawyer will make sure the compensation you receive isn’t reduced unfairly. 

Your Car Accident Is Complex

It’s recommended to speak with a lawyer if your accident involves any of these complicated situations: 

• Multiple parties are involved
• The accident involved a commercial truck
• You have a claim against a government entity
• You were injured in a slip and fall accident or another type of premises liability case
• You believe a negligent medical provider hurt you

Multiple insurance policies, fault shared by several parties, or denial of liability by an insurance company can quickly make a case too complicated to handle without legal help. 

You Were at Fault or You’re Being Sued

If you have minimum insurance coverage, your policy limits can be easily exceeded if someone suffers even a moderately severe injury. When this happens, you may be personally liable for damages that exceed your policy limits. 

Even if you were mostly to blame, someone else may also share fault for your accident. Your lawyer will protect your rights and ensure you are treated fairly. 

Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer After an Accident

If you’re unsure whether you need a car accident lawyer, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Most attorneys offer a free initial consultation, and they’ll tell you honestly if they think you have a case. There’s no harm in learning your options, but there’s a lot to lose if you don’t.