3 Reasons To Hire An Attorney After An Accident

Auto accidents are incredibly common, and they can lead to minor or severe injuries. If you've been injured in a car accident, you may be owed a settlement for medical bills, lost income, and much more. If you would like to know more, check out these three reasons to hire an attorney after a car collision. 

1. To Negotiate a Fair Settlement

You'll need to notify your insurance carrier about the accident but avoid talking to the other driver's insurance carrier. They may try to use anything you say to prove you caused the accident. They may also pressure you into accepting a fast settlement, which is often lower than you deserve. If you accept this settlement, you'll get no more money, even if your injuries turn out to be long-term and worse than you thought.

Instead, let your attorney do the negotiating. They have the knowledge and skills to better position themselves to get you a fair settlement. They may be able to get you money for:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost income
  • Loss of future income
  • Property damages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Punitive damages

2. To Represent Your Side

If you don't have any witnesses or the other driver is blaming you for the accident, you may end up with a lower settlement (or no settlement at all). In most states, the person most responsible for the accident pays the settlement (or their insurance carrier). Your attorney will use witnesses' statements, photos, and anything else to prove you didn't cause the accident or are only partially responsible.

Some states, however, won't payout if anyone is partially responsible. In these states, it's crucial to have an attorney to prove you are 0 percent responsible for the accident. Even if you are found to be 1 percent responsible, there is no settlement.

3. To Represent You in Court

If you can't reach a settlement or the other driver doesn't have insurance, you may end up in court. Court can be extremely overwhelming, and there are many rules to follow. Your attorney can help prepare you for court by preparing you for questioning, helping you dress appropriately, working to settle outside of court, and gathering proof and medical records. They may also have preexisting relationships with the other lawyers and the judge, which can also benefit your case.

Car accidents can lead to both hard and soft tissue injuries. Even minor accidents can cause whiplash and major neck pain. If you have been involved in an accident and need representation, contact an auto accident insurance attorney today.

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