Many people believe that they’re able to represent themselves if they’re in a car accident and they don’t need a lawyer. However, in order to gain the monetary compensation that should be afforded to them, utilizing the services of a lawyer may be beneficial to those who have been in a car accident.
Why Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m in a Car Accident?
In 2015, an estimated 2.44 million people were injured in U.S. auto accidents. In that same year, more than 35,000 people died in a car accident.
But do you need a lawyer if you are injured in a car accident? To determine if you need a lawyer, you should consider the following facets of filing a lawsuit after a car accident.
First, you must decide if a lawsuit is in your best interest. After a car accident, document everything. Evidence is crucial to a lawsuit, should you decide to file one.
Take photos and keep important documents of everything related to the car accident and subsequent medical needs. This information is key because it will help you determine actually how much harm has been done.
Next, consult with a lawyer who is experienced in car accident disputes. If you believe you cannot afford an attorney, consider that many car accident lawyers are paid on what is called a contingency basis. This means they are not paid until the client receives monetary compensation.
A lawyer can provide advice about whether a lawsuit is in your best interest or not.
Once evidence has been gathered and you’ve sought the advice of an attorney, you may determine if filing a lawsuit against the other driver or the insurance company will benefit you.
If you have decided to file a lawsuit, being represented by an attorney (rather than representing yourself) may be within your best interest as well.
Attorneys who are experienced in car accident claims can assess the value of your claim. In essence, the lawyer can look at your claim to determine if it something that is likely to win and what your projected outcome could be.
Also, personal injury attorneys are equipped with in-house teams of investigators that will look at all the details of the car accident case that could affect the outcome.
Additionally, an attorney experienced in working with car accident lawsuits can help raise the settlement offers. Often, when a person represents him or herself, the insurance companies will offer low settlements. An attorney can help you get the monetary compensation, including economic and non-economic damages, that you deserve.
The statute of limitations on many car accidents is within one or two years, so it is beneficial to act on your potential lawsuit as soon as possible.
If you have been injured in an car accident, you may receive higher offers and reap the benefits of an investigative team if you decide to hire a lawyer.
Discussing your legal options with an experienced car accident lawyer may be within your best interest. Contact the attorneys at McDonald Worley today for a FREE case evaluation.