Car accidents can be life-changing events that can leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial damage. In the aftermath of a car accident, it’s common for victims to make mistakes that can hurt their chances of getting fair compensation for their losses. The #1 mistake most car accident victims make is not seeking the help of a lawyer.
In this article, we’ll explore why not hiring a lawyer is a critical mistake and how a lawyer can help car accident victims get the compensation they deserve.
Why Not Hiring a Lawyer is a Critical Mistake
After a car accident, victims are often overwhelmed with medical bills, insurance claims, and legal paperwork. Many victims believe they can handle the process on their own, especially if they have insurance. However, dealing with insurance companies and negotiating a settlement is not as easy as it seems.
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses that are always looking for ways to minimize their payouts. They have teams of lawyers and claims adjusters who are trained to settle claims for the lowest possible amount. If a victim tries to negotiate with an insurance company on their own, they may unknowingly accept a settlement that is far less than what they are entitled to.
Additionally, car accident victims may not be aware of all the damages they are entitled to. For example, they may not know that they can recover compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical expenses. Without a lawyer, victims may leave money on the table.
How a Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer can help car accident victims in many ways. Here are some of the ways a lawyer can assist in getting fair compensation:
Investigate the Accident
A lawyer can investigate the accident to determine who is at fault. They can gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong case. By proving fault, a lawyer can help victims recover compensation for their losses.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies
A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of the victim. They have experience dealing with insurance companies and know how to negotiate a fair settlement. A lawyer can also advise victims on whether to accept a settlement or take the case to court.
Determine the Value of the Case
A lawyer can help determine the value of the case by calculating all the damages the victim has suffered. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A lawyer can also calculate future damages, such as future medical expenses and lost earning potential.
Represent the Victim in Court
If a settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can represent the victim in court. A lawyer can present evidence and arguments to a judge or jury to prove the victim’s case. This can result in a larger settlement or award for the victim.
Car accidents can be traumatic events that can leave victims with significant damages. The #1 mistake most car accident victims make is not seeking the help of a lawyer, according to Anidjar & Levine. By hiring a lawyer, car accident victims can level the playing field and get the compensation they deserve.
If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t make the mistake of trying to handle it on your own. Contact a lawyer today to get the help you need.