Do I need to contact an attorney after a car accident?
Generally speaking, if you or your passengers were injured in a car accident the answer is yes. You should especially contact an attorney if there is any permanent injury, or if you have lost any time from work, school, or household duties. In these circumstances, an attorney can help represent you in a claim against another party who may be responsible for your injuries.
Even if you or your passengers have not been injured, an attorney may be able to help you win some compensation as the facts and circumstances surrounding each car accident are different. It is important to look at the degree of the car accident and use your best judgment.
Immediately contact an attorney when:
o An injury has occurred where there has been serious injury (broken bones / hospitalization) or where injuries are likely to be permanent (paralysis);
o A death has resulted from the accident;
o Fault is clearly an issue;
o Other parties were involved such as pedestrians or other autos;
o The accident occurred in a construction area;
o A police report does not accurately describe the accident and puts you at fault;
o Important technical, legal or medical issues are involved;
o The limits of your liability insurance are low,
o You have no insurance, or your insurance company suggests that you did not pay your premium.
o Your insurer starts “acting funny.”
o Your insurer involves its own attorney
o Seeking advice on the settlement value of a claim (while not an exact science, attorneys may be able to provide best and worse case scenarios);
o Unsure if other insurance (homeowners, travel, etc.) may be available;
o Determining whether your insurer may be acting in bad faith (not looking out for your best interests);
o Seeking information on how to handle negotiations with an insurer;
o You don’t know your rights;
o Confused over the terms of your policy;
o Needing an expert to review confusing paperwork or forms.
