Suffering injuries in a car accident is one of the most traumatic experiences many people undergo in their lifetimes. If you get hurt in an accident due to another party’s negligence, you could be eligible to file a claim against them seeking compensation for your losses. However, while you might be eager to save money on legal fees by representing yourself, filing a car accident claim is not something you should handle alone. Working with an experienced car accident attorney is the best way to protect your rights and avoid leaving money on the table as you pursue your injury claim. Read on to learn more about what a car accident lawyer can do for you.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident?
Car accident lawyers are legal professionals with extensive experience handling the complexities of car accident cases. While you heal from your crash injuries, your attorney can take care of every aspect of the legal process, including by:
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering evidence
- Identifying liable parties
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Representing you in court if necessary
By enlisting the help of a car accident lawyer, you significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other crash-related losses.
Read more: Why You Should Hire a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident
When to Call a Lawyer After a Car Accident
If you get hurt in a car accident, you should contact a car accident lawyer for help as soon as possible. The sooner you get legal advice, the better your chances of building a solid case and getting full compensation.
You should reach out to a lawyer after a car accident if any of the following applies to your situation:
- You suffered physical or emotional injuries as a result of the accident
- Your injuries are so severe that you are unable to return to work
- It’s unclear who was responsible for causing the accident
- There were multiple vehicles or other parties involved in the accident
- The accident occurred in a construction, school, or work zone
- The accident involved an uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run driver
- You have trouble obtaining or preserving evidence for your claim
- The insurance company tries to minimize or deny your claim
- An insurance company representative asks you to give a statement
- You don’t feel confident about negotiating with the insurance adjuster
Read more: How to Scare An Insurance Adjuster (into Making a Fair Offer)
What Are the Risks of Filing a Claim Myself?
Filing a car accident claim without the help of an attorney is extremely risky. Here are some common risks associated with handling this type of claim on your own:
- Inadequate compensation – Without a thorough understanding of the legal system and the value of your claim, you could settle for a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
- Missed deadlines – Navigating the claims process involves meeting various deadlines and procedural requirements. Failing to act before these deadlines or adhere to the proper procedures could result in the dismissal of your claim.
- Limited legal knowledge – Insurance companies and their legal teams have extensive experience handling car accident claims. Without a deep understanding of the law and your rights, you are at a disadvantage when negotiating with these professionals.
- Unnecessary stress – Managing a car accident claim can be time-consuming and emotionally draining. By working with a lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your case, reducing stress and increasing your chances of a favorable result.
Read more: Personal Injury Case Checklist
How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge?
Many people believe that handling their claims themselves will save them money. However, this is often not the case. Car accident lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only charge legal fees if they successfully recover compensation for you. In other words, you do not have to worry about upfront fees or hourly rates, and you shouldn’t be responsible for any fees at all if your lawyer does not secure money for you from a settlement or by winning your case in court.
Read more: How Personal Injury Settlements Are Paid Out
Contact the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Lawyers, Ltd. Today
At the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Lawyers, Ltd., our dedicated team of car accident attorneys is passionate about fighting for the rights of accident victims in Providence, RI, and the surrounding areas. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial burden a car accident can impose on you and your loved ones, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need to get your life back on track.
Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone. Call the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Lawyers, Ltd. today at (401) 751-8855 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn more about how we can help.
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