A few years ago, I was in a pretty serious car accident. During the aftermath, I became really familiar with a lot of different types of lawyers. I worked with personal injury lawyers, insurance lawyers, and many others. Perhaps the most important, though, was the estate planning lawyer. I was really young, and neither my wife or I had thought about starting a will. But the accident kind of scared us into it. What would happen if one of us were to die? Even when still in the hospital, I was working with the lawyer to draw up a will. Now, I have some peace and security about what the future will be like if something should happen to me. And I have a lot of experience working with various types of lawyers! The accident was kind of a blessing in disguise in that way.
Car accidents can be a traumatic and confusing experience. This blog will provide guidance on when it makes sense to seek legal assistance following a car accident.
Immediate Contact: Serious Injuries or Fatalities
If you or anyone else involved in the accident has suffered serious injuries or there has been a fatality, it is crucial to contact an accident lawyer immediately. Serious injuries could include broken bones, spinal cord damage, head trauma, or anything requiring hospitalization. In these situations, the stakes are high, and having an experienced lawyer on your side can ensure you receive the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Delayed Symptoms: The Sneaky Injuries
Sometimes, injuries from car accidents don’t present themselves immediately. Conditions like whiplash or concussions might only become apparent days or even weeks after the accident. If you start experiencing symptoms such as headaches, neck or back pain, dizziness, or memory problems following a car accident, contact a lawyer. They can guide you through the process of getting a proper medical evaluation and pursuing a personal injury claim if necessary.
Disputed Liability: When Fault is Unclear
If there’s a dispute about who was at fault for the accident, it's wise to get a lawyer involved. Insurance companies often try to shift blame or downplay their policyholder's responsibility to minimize the payout. A skilled accident lawyer can help gather evidence to prove liability and ensure you're not unfairly blamed for the accident.
Insurance Complications: Uncooperative or Unfair Settlement Offers
If the at-fault driver's insurance company refuses to cooperate, or if you believe their settlement offer is unfair, it's time to contact a lawyer. An accident lawyer knows how to negotiate with insurance companies, and they can fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Long-term Effects: Disability or Lifestyle Changes
If your injuries result in a long-term disability or require you to make significant changes to your lifestyle, a lawyer can help you calculate the future costs associated with these changes. This could include ongoing medical treatment, modifications to your home, or lost future earnings.
In conclusion, while not every car accident requires the services of a lawyer, there are several situations where legal advice can be invaluable. If you're dealing with serious injuries, delayed symptoms, disputed liability, uncooperative insurance companies, or long-term effects from the accident, it’s time to pick up the phone and call an accident lawyer. Remember, your health and financial stability are too important to leave to chance. Always consider seeking professional advice when navigating the aftermath of a car accident.
Contact a local accident lawyer to learn more.
Share1 August 2023
