Car accidents can be traumatic. After an accident, many people are focused on their recovery and getting their lives back on track.
However, another crucial aspect to deal with after an accident is handling the insurance claims process. This is where a car accident lawyer comes in.
A lawyer can greatly increase the chances of winning the case and recovering damages while also dealing with the tactics of insurance adjusters and other complex things of a personal injury case. Here is how they can assist you.
Dealing with Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters aim to minimize the payout to accident victims. After a car accident, the adjuster will evaluate the damages to determine how much the insurance company should pay. Unfortunately, their evaluation may not always reflect the full extent of your injuries or damages.
A car accident lawyer can help you handle this process in several ways:
- Handling Negotiations: Lawyers know how to negotiate with insurance adjusters to get a fair settlement. They understand the tactics adjusters use to undervalue claims and know when to push back against low offers.
- Protecting Your Interests: Insurance adjusters may ask you to sign documents that could harm your case. A lawyer can advise you on what to say and what not to say, protecting you from accidentally admitting fault or providing information that the adjusters may use against you.
Determining Liability
One of the most critical aspects of any car accident case is determining who was at fault. In some cases, determining liability can be straightforward, such as in rear-end collisions. However, proving liability can be challenging in more complex cases with multiple vehicles or disputed accident accounts.
A car accident lawyer can assist in the following ways:
- Gathering Evidence: Lawyers can gather all necessary evidence, such as police reports, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and expert testimony, to build a compelling case.
- Consulting Experts: In more complex cases, attorneys often work with accident reconstruction experts who can analyze the accident scene, vehicle damage, and witness testimony to determine fault with a high degree of certainty.
- Assessing Comparative Negligence: In some states, if both parties share some degree of fault for the accident, the adjuster will reduce the settlement based on the percentage of fault. An experienced lawyer can help you understand how comparative negligence laws apply to your case and protect your interests.
Maximizing Your Compensation
After a car accident, you can get compensation for various damages, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, insurance companies often offer settlements that only cover a few expenses.
A car accident lawyer can help you maximize your compensation by:
- Assessing Your Damages: A lawyer will work with medical professionals to understand the full extent of your injuries and future medical needs. They will ensure that your claim accounts for long-term care, rehabilitation, and potential future lost wages.
- Handling Property Damage Claims: Dealing with property damage claims can be frustrating, especially when insurance adjusters try to undervalue the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. A lawyer will ensure that your property damage claim is fair and that you receive adequate compensation to restore your vehicle.
Filing a Lawsuit (if Necessary)
While many car accident claims are settled through negotiation, there are times when litigation is necessary. Your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit if the insurance company cannot provide a fair settlement.
A car accident lawyer can help in the following ways:
- Preparing the Case: Your lawyer will file the necessary paperwork, prepare the legal arguments, and handle all communications with the court and opposing counsel.
- Representing You in Court: If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will represent you, present evidence, and argue your case before a judge or jury.
- Handling Pre-Trial Motions: In many cases, pre-trial motions must be filed and argued. Your lawyer can handle these motions, such as motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, and discovery motions, to ensure that your case moves forward smoothly.
Conclusion
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful. However, having a skilled car accident lawyer can improve your chances of winning the case and recovering damages.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contacting an experienced lawyer is one of the best decisions you can make for your future.
