Car accidents happen all the time. Many accidents cause serious damage to the cars involved as well as serious injuries to drivers, passengers and pedestrians. If you have been injured in a car accident, you may need an auto accident attorney to represent your interests and defend your rights. A study from the Insurance Research Council (IRC) shows car accident victims who hire an attorney get much larger settlements
There are different ways a lawyer can help you if you find yourself injured in an accident through no fault of your own, some of these include:
1. Investigation and Paperwork
The first thing the lawyer would do is to investigate all the contributing factors to the accident; some common causes include poor road conditions, vehicle malfunction, and driver distraction, among others. In most cases, a thorough investigation is done with an accident reconstruction specialist for more effectiveness.
In addition, a lot of documenting needs to be done, from your medical records to car expenses and missed time from work. If you have serious injuries that require you to spend time at the hospital, it will also be documented to help build a strong case on your behalf.
2. Obtain Necessary Evidence
The lawyer will need to obtain evidence of liability and damages. While investigating the site of the accident, they will observe every detail that can be used as a form of evidence. The lawyer will request all the accident reports in the case, interview witnesses and retain expert witnesses.
You may have significant injuries from the accident and while the hospitals are ideally expected to provide a report, the lawyer will ensure that it is documented properly. The medical report must be able to prove what your injury, disability, or physical limitation is and that it was caused by the negligence of the other party.
3. Deal with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters from the other party’s insurance company will contact you as soon as possible and will try as hard as they can to minimize the payout amount. While doing this, they might want to push you to make a quick decision that might not be in your favor. A lawyer will ensure you get the exact worth of your claim and not sign away your right to sue for further damages. A lawyer understands better and can stand in the gap to help you recover your losses.
4. Negotiation
A lawyer will get involved in every form of negotiation that you will be required to make. This includes getting a lienholder to reduce its lien; this happens when you have received benefits from a health, disability, or workers’ compensation insurer. The lawyer will also negotiate a fair settlement with the other party’s insurance company, as they know how much the case is worth with enough evidence to support the claim.
Conclusion
For small accidents, most people would rather handle the case themselves. However, if you ever find yourself in a serious car accident, it is advisable to hire an auto accident attorney. This will not only save you stress but will also ensure a smooth case with the settlement you deserve.
