If you’ve been in a car accident, you may be wondering if you need a lawyer and what exactly they can do for you. Having legal representation can make a big difference in getting full and fair compensation. With over 6 million car crashes occurring each year, the claims process can be complex and overwhelming. This article outlines what an experienced car accident attorney can do to help investigate your crash, deal with insurance, file claims, examine medical records, and negotiate the optimal settlement for you.Â
Investigating the Accident
One of the first things an attorney will do is thoroughly investigate the collision. In 2022, more than 228.7 million licensed drivers were on the road, making determining fault complex. An experienced lawyer will gather police reports, speak to witnesses, visit the accident scene, and collect any other evidence available to establish liability. Though the number of fatalities reduced between 2021 and 2022, and this trend is continuing, 10,922 fatal crashes were attributed to speeding. Having a professional conduct this investigation takes the burden off the victim and ensures liability is determined.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Navigating interactions with insurance companies after a crash can be extremely stressful and confusing. An attorney acts as your legal representative, communicating directly with insurers on your behalf. They know how to respond to low-ball settlement offers, denied claims, delays in payments, and other common tactics used by insurance adjusters. Attorneys who specialize in car accidents are intimately familiar with auto insurance regulations and policies. They use their expertise to get you the maximum payout the insurance company owes you.
Filing Car Accident Claims and Lawsuits
With over 2.3 million people injured in car accidents in the US every year, legal representation is critical. If insurance fails to provide adequate compensation, a lawyer can take the next steps like filing claims or lawsuits. Lawyers handle all paperwork, filings, proceedings, and more. They know how to effectively file personal injury lawsuits, participate in settlement conferences, take depositions, and go to trial if needed. Having an experienced attorney eliminates hassles and ensures proper legal procedures are followed at every stage.
Examining Medical Records
Car accident lawyers also examine your medical records related to the collision. They review doctor, hospital, and therapy bills and records. By working closely with doctors, they gain a full understanding of current and future treatment needs. This allows them to demand insurance covers the full extent of economic and non-economic damages resulting from the crash.
Negotiate Car Accident Settlements
Once the evidence is gathered to calculate damages accurately, lawyers negotiate fair out-of-court settlements with insurance companies. Their legal expertise gives them leverage that individual crash victims often lack. Experienced car accident attorneys know how to fight for the maximum possible settlement under the circumstances. They work relentlessly to get you every dollar you deserve.
Choosing a skilled car accident lawyer not only eases the stress of navigating a complex claims process but also ensures you have an advocate fighting for your rights. With the right attorney, you can focus on your recovery while they focus on securing the justice and compensation you deserve.