When you get into a car accident, knowing when to hire a lawyer can make a big difference in how things turn out. You might wonder if you really need one right away or if you can handle things on your own. This post will help explain when it makes sense to call a lawyer after a car accident and what they can do for you.
When to Think About Hiring a Lawyer After a Car Accident
You have the right to hire a lawyer any time after a car accident. Some people call one right away, while others wait until they see if they can handle the insurance claim on their own. Here are some signs that it might be a good idea to get legal help:
- If your injuries are serious and you have high medical bills
- If the other driver caused the accident but denies fault
- If the insurance company offers you a low settlement or denies your claim
- If you have lost wages because you cannot work
- If the accident involved complicated issues like multiple drivers or hit and run
Calling a lawyer sooner helps make sure you don’t miss important deadlines, like the statute of limitations, which limits how long you have to file a lawsuit.
Filing an Insurance Claim
After a car accident, most people start by filing a claim with their insurance company or the other driver’s insurer. This is the first step to getting money to cover medical bills, car repairs, and other costs. Insurance claims can seem simple, but they often get tricky.
Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible. They might ask you questions that could hurt your case or try to settle fast before you understand how serious your injuries are. A lawyer knows how to deal with insurance companies and can help protect your rights. They make sure the offer you get is fair based on your injuries and losses.
When a Personal Injury Lawsuit Is Needed
Sometimes insurance companies don’t pay enough or deny your claim. In those cases, you might have to file a personal injury lawsuit to get the compensation you deserve. Lawsuits can take time and require strong evidence to prove the other driver was at fault.
A lawyer will gather evidence like police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build your case. They also know the laws that apply and how to argue your case in court if needed. The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the better they can prepare to fight for you.
What a Lawyer Does for You
A car accident lawyer helps in many ways beyond just dealing with insurance. They:
- Evaluate your injuries and losses to figure out what compensation you should get
- Handle all paperwork and deadlines so you don’t miss important steps
- Gather evidence to prove who caused the accident
- Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if the case goes to trial
Many lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything upfront. Instead, the lawyer gets a percentage of your settlement or court award. This makes legal help more affordable for people who might worry about paying attorney fees.
What You Need to Know About Time Limits
Every state has a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit called the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to sue. These limits vary by state but are usually one to three years from the date of the accident.
Because these deadlines can be strict, it’s important to contact a lawyer early. They will help make sure your claim is filed on time and protect your rights throughout the process.
Why Legal Help Makes a Difference
Car accident cases involve many details, like who caused the crash, how bad your injuries are, and how much money you need to cover medical bills and lost income. Having a lawyer on your side means you get someone experienced to handle these details.
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working for them. When you hire a lawyer, you even the playing field. Your attorney works to make sure you get full and fair compensation. This can cover things like medical expenses, car repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Don’t Wait Too Long to Get Help
If you’ve been in a car accident in Las Vegas, it’s smart to talk to a lawyer sooner rather than later. Whether you want help filing an insurance claim, need to file a lawsuit, or just want to make sure you’re getting treated fairly, legal advice can make a big difference. Call Friedman Injury Law at (702) 970-4222 to get a free consultation. You don’t pay anything unless you win your case. Don’t wait and risk losing your chance to get the compensation you deserve.
