Any road-related accident is likely to leave you with a lot of questions – from who is at fault for the damages, to how you will cover potential medical costs. Ultimately, you may face the grave decision of whether to engage in legal services. This depends largely on the severity of the accident and any potential legal implications that could arise from it. We have outlined some key considerations to help you determine whether you need to contact a lawyer in this scenario:
The Severity of Injury or Damage
If there has been significant injury or damage to either yourself, your vehicle, or the property of another party, it is important to seek independent legal advice. These types of injuries or damage need to be checked out immediately. Keep track of all the medical files you receive during this time. A lawyer can explore the full legal implications of your accident and make sure that you are adequately compensated for any medical costs or damages. They will be able to assess the damage and understand your situation a little better. If you are not at fault then you deserve financial compensation for damages from the accident.
Potential Insurance Disputes
It is not uncommon for insurance disputes to arise from car accidents. Some will try to dispute the amount that you are entitled to, or even deny your claim altogether. These types of disputes can cause unnecessary stress when you are in an unknown situation. If your insurer is being difficult or uncooperative in settling a claim, it may be worth engaging a lawyer to help you navigate the process and ensure that you are treated fairly. Your lawyer will be able to bring in the evidence and vouch for you. They may not have listened the first time but they will hear your lawyer out.
Third-Party Involvement
If another person was involved in your accident – such as a pedestrian or other driver – it may be necessary to contact a lawyer. This is because you could potentially face legal liability in such cases, as there may be conflicting accounts of who is at fault. It’s best to keep yourself covered in the situation. That way there aren’t any miscommunications or someone pointing blame at you. Legal guidance will help uncover any potential legal issues and enable you to pursue your claim in court if necessary. Reaching out to a legal professional can keep you in the clear as your case is being investigated.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you have experienced any kind of physical or psychological harm as a result of another person’s negligent behavior, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. Different states have distinctive laws regarding personal injury and negligence, so it is important to speak with a lawyer that understands your local laws.
For instance, a state like Florida operates on ‘no-fault insurance’ – meaning both victims will be covered by their insurance policies regardless of who is at fault. However, a victim may still file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver if serious injuries have occurred and damages are more than $10,000. A West Palm Beach car accident attorney at Kogan & DiSalvo in Florida will be able to advise on whether this option applies to your case.
Limited Scope of Legal Know-How
Lastly, anybody who has been involved in a car accident should keep in mind that there is only so much they can do without the help of a professional. It is common to overlook or miss certain points or aspects of a case, which could render your claim useless. There is also the possibility of being taken advantage of when you don’t know how the system works. Starting with a qualified attorney will mean that you are fully informed of your rights and legal options from the start, and to ensure the best possible outcome. They will make sure that your case is being treated with care and that you get the justice that you deserve.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, it is how you handle the aftermath that will dictate your experience. There are multiple ways to go about it but it’s best to take the smart way. Taking an informed approach will give you the best chance of securing a successful outcome, which may include seeking legal advice if necessary. Having a legal professional fight for you can make all the difference. Ultimately, it is important to weigh up all your options and decide what is right for you given the severity and nature of the accident.
