When Should You Hire A Lawyer After A Car Accident

The short answer is as soon as possible. If you require medical treatment, then of course seek medical care.  However, as soon as you are well enough to handle your affairs, call a lawyer.

Most people wait until their insurance claim is denied to call a lawyer. The truth is that when you are speaking to your insurance or the other driver’s insurance company, they are looking for ways to deny or (at least) decrease your claim. They will try to find holes in your story or use what the other driver has said against you, regardless of how true it actually is.

Some insurance companies might attempt to persuade you to sign a settlement release that ends up providing a fraction of what your claim is actually worth. Should your medical bills end up being more than that, they will no longer be obligated to pay since you signed the settlement.

Insurance adjusters handle claims all day every day and they know how to diminish the value of your case. Having a lawyer on your side when you file your claim will help to ensure that your claim is approved and that you are compensated fairly.

Car accidents are a fairly common occurrence, unfortunately. We see them all the time, on our way to work or during road trips. Most car accidents are minor, making an exchange of information and a police report adequate for all parties involved.

When the accident is more severe and there are injuries involved, it may be time to get a lawyer involved who can protect you and your finances. 

 What To Do After A Car Accident

Most people are nervous, scared, or angry after a car accident, so they forget some basic steps that should be taken. These steps include:

Stop your car in a safe place - Find the nearest safe spot to stop if you are still moving.  Otherwise only move your car to protect against further damage and to keep from blocking traffic.  

Check for injuries - You’ll need to call for an ambulance if anyone is seriously injured or is unresponsive. 

Call the police - Do not agree to avoid calling the police. You will need the police report should you need to prove your case. You are also legally required to report the accident, no matter how minor it may seem.

Exchange information - Provide your name, contact information, and insurance information to the other driver/s involved in the accident. Be sure to get their information as well and double-check the expiration date of their insurance.

Get contact information from witnesses - If you can, speak to any witnesses and ask for their contact information. Their reports could be crucial later. They may not be inclined to help, but once the police arrive, people tend to be more cooperative.

Take pictures - Use your phone to take pictures from all angles of the crash. Try to include the scene as well: any tire marks or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.

Speak with police - Tell the police what happened honestly, but do not admit fault. You don’t want to say something that may work against you later, and the police officer will write whatever you say in their report.

Consider a hospital - If you are injured in any way, you should go to the hospital. You may have injuries that you don’t see or feel immediately. If you do end up with medical bills, you’ll need this documentation in court.

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