Car accidents happen every day. Although most of these accidents only result in minor vehicle damage, personal injuries may also occur. In fact, most personal injury claims are the result of auto accidents. If you have been injured in an accident, you may need an attorney who will fight for your settlement. Therefore, search for a lawyer, such as a car accident lawyer in Antelope Valley, if you need legal assistance.
You Were Injured
Any major or minor injury should be documented by a physician. If your injury is minor and the insurance company paid for the initial doctor’s visit, you may not need to seek legal counsel, but if you have broken bones or have to stay in the hospital, a lawyer may be necessary.
Any long-term medical care will also require legal counsel. For example, if you will need extensive physical therapy or were permanently disabled by the accident, a lawyer will help you get the maximum settlement from the insurance company.
You Have Been Blamed
If you have been blamed for an accident, especially if others were injured or died during the accident, you should seek legal counsel. Understand that everyone, including the insurance companies, is looking to push blame onto someone else to avoid paying for the accident. Your lawyer will fight these allegations so you can recover your damages and avoid any criminal prosecution and civil cases against you.
Your future insurance rates and availability will also be affected by whether you are to blame for your accident.
During Negotiations
Your insurance company will not want to pay you everything you need to restore your life and property. Their job is to make money. However, you may lack the legal knowledge or negotiation skills to get them to pay you what you need. An auto accident attorney will force the insurance company to abide by the law. They will also have the negotiation and trial skills necessary to get a proper settlement.
The Accident Report Was Incorrect
If the police report was incorrect, especially if it is to your disadvantage, a lawyer should be consulted. Police reports may include mistakes or omissions that could affect your settlement amount. A reputable lawyer will employ investigators who will find out who caused the accident. They will collect video and photographic evidence and seek out witnesses who can collaborate your story. They can then share the witnesses’ contact information with your lawyer so they can be deposed or subpoenaed to court.
Your Life Has Been Disrupted
Whether you missed some work or you can no longer drive due to anxiety, the accident has disrupted your life. Auto accident lawyers negotiate both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages may include medical bills and loss of wages costs, while non-economic damages include emotional distress and pain and suffering. All of these damages have a monetary value that can be negotiated. An auto accident lawyer will understand all the losses that can be recovered legally.
If you were injured in an accident, get the best settlement by consulting an auto accident attorney.
