Being in a car accident is scary. Being injured in a car accident is even worse. And then there is the logistical headache that comes after the accident. If you were injured, you were likely taken straight to the emergency room. Then there will be follow-up appointments at the doctor’s office. Also, there are claims to file with your car insurance carrier and the insurance carrier of the other driver. Your car will need repairs. Additionally, your injuries may prevent you from going to work. Time off of work plus doctor’s appointments and car repairs add up to a lot of time and money. If the other driver was at fault, you may be entitled to a settlement from his or her insurance company. But in many cases, insurance companies will resist big payouts. A car accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
How Can A Personal Injury Lawyer Help With a Car Accident?
A personal injury lawyer can help you to get the settlement you deserve after a car accident. An experienced personal injury lawyer knows what type of settlement you deserve based on your particular situation. He or she will do everything necessary to get you that settlement through the following techniques.
Working with the other driver’s insurance carrier
Your settlement will come from the other driver’s insurance company, so it is important to have a good lawyer who can respectfully deal with them.
Gathering evidence from the car accident
Your lawyer will gather evidence from the accident to show that the other driver was at fault. This evidence includes photographs, accident reports, and interviews with police officers and witnesses.
Gathering evidence of damages
In order to be paid in compensation for your injuries, you must demonstrate that your injuries were caused by the car accident. Insurance companies may try to claim that your injuries were pre-existing or not the fault of the other driver (their client). A personal injury lawyer will gather the appropriate evidence from your medical records and your treatment provider. The lawyer may request a letter from your doctor stating exactly what your injury, disability, or limitation is, and a specific estimate of how long you will be injured or disabled. Additionally, the doctor can also state that, in his or her medical opinion, your injuries were caused by the negligence of the other driver.
Negotiating your settlement
An experienced personal injury lawyer has a good idea of how much money the injured party is entitled to receive. He or she will negotiate on your behalf with the insurance company to ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.
When Should I Call a Personal Injury Lawyer?
If your case is small, you may consider handling it yourself. If your medical bills total under $3000 or if you missed less than one week of work, it may be worth your while to pursue the case yourself. Filing the claim yourself will require you to gather the necessary evidence and documents, then negotiate the settlement yourself. If you are not comfortable doing these things on your own, call a personal injury lawyer.
If you have been in a car accident and need the assistance of a personal injury lawyer, Locate Legal Help can help. Our team can put you in touch with an experienced personal injury lawyer near you.