Car accident victims often face difficulty obtaining compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company. A lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation, review eyewitness testimony and other evidence like photos and videos to help determine liability.
You’ll want an attorney with extensive experience handling car accident injury cases, with a track record of success. You’ll also want a lawyer who is responsive, communicative and empathetic to your needs.
You’re unsure of your legal rights
Car accident victims face a multitude of challenges after an accident. They must deal with pain and discomfort from injuries, medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and in severe cases, loss of life. It’s not uncommon for victims to feel overwhelmed by their situation and confused about the legal process. That’s why it’s important to call an attorney that can help them navigate the road ahead and take away some of the burden.
The first step is to find a lawyer with a proven track record of success in personal injury cases. This can be accomplished by researching online reviews and testimonials from past clients. Another way to gauge a lawyer’s abilities is by scheduling a consultation. Most lawyers offer free consultations to potential clients, which can be a great opportunity to see how well they work with you and assess whether or not you’ll be able to build a successful relationship with them.
During your initial consultation, it’s important to provide the attorney with all of the information regarding your accident and any other details related to your case. Providing as much information as possible will allow the lawyer to prepare a stronger strategy for your case and get the best results. Also, be sure to bring any documentation you have, such as medical bills, police reports, and correspondence with insurance companies. Keeping copies of these documents will help to keep your attorney up-to-date on the status of your case and ensure they have everything they need to prepare for trial.
A good car accident attorney will also be able to protect you from the tactics of insurance companies, who are often trying to downplay your injuries and the value of your property damage. In addition, they can also assist you in claiming non-economic losses that are harder to quantify in monetary terms, such as loss of enjoyment and loss of companionship.
Choosing a top Manhattan car accident lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make in your case. Look for a firm with a proven track record of success, a strong network of professional connections and relationships with judges and other attorneys, and an established reputation.
You’re unsure of your financial situation
Car accident attorneys can help you deal with the many financial issues that may be a result of a crash. They can explain complex legal concepts and manage the details of your claim or lawsuit while you focus on getting well. They can also assist with any insurance companies involved, especially if the insurer is denying coverage or not offering an adequate settlement.
You should consider obtaining a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash, particularly when:
Evidence may disappear or degrade over time, such as skid marks, traffic light readings, and surveillance footage. A lawyer can ensure that this information is preserved and that you have access to it if needed. Witnesses’ memories may fade over time, so a lawyer can contact them early to collect reliable statements. In addition, an attorney can ensure you don’t say anything that could harm your case or give away your fault.
An attorney can help you determine the value of your case by examining documents, including:
Your insurance company may offer you an initial settlement, but it is often too low to cover all of your damages. An experienced attorney can evaluate this offer and negotiate with the insurer to get a better settlement on your behalf.
When you’re looking for an attorney, it is helpful to ask friends and family for recommendations or referrals. They can give you a firsthand account of their experience working with the firm and can tell you whether they felt the attorney was worth hiring. You should also check online reviews, but be wary of biased opinions, as some people may be angry with the outcome of their case. You can also ask other attorneys you know for a referral, as they are likely to have experience with the types of cases that involve car accidents. If you’re unsure of who to turn to, consider contacting your state bar association for a list of reputable car accident lawyers. They can recommend attorneys who have been approved for contingency fees, meaning you pay no upfront fee but will owe them a percentage of any money recovered.
You’re worried about your health
Car accident injuries can cause significant medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses. They can also result in lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, PTSD, or even permanent disability. An experienced personal injury lawyer can fight to get you the financial compensation you need to recover.
It is very important to get immediate medical attention after a car accident. This is true for both the driver and any passengers in your vehicle. Make sure to visit an emergency room or urgent care facility for a thorough examination. It is also vital to follow your doctor’s orders for treatment. For example, if they recommend imaging tests or surgery, be sure to get these done in a timely manner. Not following your doctors’ instructions can seriously harm your injury claim if you need to file one later.
Some severe injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, don’t show symptoms until days or weeks after an accident. Seeing a doctor immediately is also a good way to document the injuries you suffered as a result of the accident. This documentation is extremely useful when insurance companies try to deny your claims or reduce the amount of money you receive for your injuries.
If you know anyone who has been in a car accident, they may be able to provide you with a recommendation for an attorney or law firm that they used in their own case. This can save you time and help you avoid choosing a firm that is not right for you.
You’re being pressured by the insurance company
When a car accident occurs, the insurance company is always looking for ways to minimize their liability and your compensation. They will do whatever they can to wear you down and get you to settle for less than you deserve. This is especially true for cases involving serious or permanent injuries, surgery, lengthy hospital stays, and traumatic mental health issues.
An experienced car accident lawyer knows the ins and outs of these types of cases, and they can help you get the compensation you need. They can also file a claim with an uninsured driver to bridge the gap left by the at-fault party’s lack of coverage. In addition, they can help you find alternative sources of compensation like locating the liable party’s assets.
While it is usually best to decline direct communication with the other party’s insurance adjuster, they may reach out anyway. If this happens, it is important to have your attorney handle all communications as they can ensure that you don’t say anything that could be used against you. Even small talk can give the insurance adjuster ammunition to downplay your injuries or your culpability.
Insurance companies also often attempt to get you to settle before you are completely healed from your injuries. This can lead to you being stuck with expensive medical bills that aren’t covered. Your lawyer can calculate what your injuries are worth and then send the insurance company a demand letter, outlining all of your damages, including your current and future medical expenses, ongoing physical therapy, your loss of income, the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle, and other losses.
Insurance adjusters also often ask for full medical records, which can be used to search for pre-existing conditions that might reduce your compensation. Your lawyer can advise you on the scope of documents to provide, and they can also handle requests for recorded statements, which should never be agreed to without first seeking legal advice.