Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
After being involved in a car crash, you likely feel stunned. There’s a lot on your mind. What happens next?
Even if you have been involved in a car accident before, you are likely not prepared for one. A crash can happen in an instant, leaving you and your vehicle with severe damages.
So this begs the question? Do you need a lawyer to help you with your case? The answer depends on your situation. For a minor case with minimal injuries, it likely wouldn’t be worth it for you or a lawyer.
So when should you call a lawyer? Here are some ways in which a lawyer can be helpful.
Situations in Which a Lawyer May Be Warranted
It’s a good idea to hire a lawyer after a car accident if any of the following apply:
- You have serious injuries. If you or anyone else involved in the accident has sustained serious injuries, you should seek legal representation, as having a lawyer in this case can help you increase your compensation. A lawyer can help ensure you receive enough money for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Liability is disputed. If fault for the accident is unclear or being disputed by the other party, a lawyer can investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. They can gather evidence from a variety of sources to help establish liability.
- There are complex circumstances. If the accident involved multiple vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or occurred in a construction zone or other uncommon situation, a lawyer can help navigate the complexities of the case.
- There are challenges with the insurance company. Dealing with insurance companies can be complicated and overwhelming, especially if they are disputing your claim or offering a low settlement. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and work to maximize your compensation.
- There are legal deadlines involved. There are statutes of limitations for filing personal injury claims after a car accident. In Texas, you have just two years from the date of the car accident to file a claim. This may seem like plenty of time, but it’s really not. You need to act quickly and avoid delays. Missing these deadlines could result in you losing the right to pursue compensation, so don’t miss out. A lawyer can ensure all necessary paperwork is filed on time and handle all legal proceedings within the required timeframes.
- There are possible long-term consequences. If the accident has long-term consequences such as permanent disability or ongoing medical treatment, a lawyer can help you assess the full extent of your damages and ensure you receive fair compensation for future expenses.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
After a car accident, you may think you can handle everything on your own. However, crashes can be complex. It doesn’t hurt to discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer.
A Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC can guide you through the process. Not sure if you need a lawyer? We offer free consultations, so there’s nothing to lose. Fill out the online form or call 281-347-3247 today.
Source:
jdsupra.com/legalnews/when-should-you-hire-a-lawyer-for-a-car-6909963/
