Getting involved in a car accident is stressful and traumatic. Whoever is at fault, it is important to seek the counsel and assistance of a car accident lawyer. A car accident attorney will help in answering the questions and concerns of those involved, from filing their insurance claim to seeking damages from the other driver.
Car Accident Statistics in the United States
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 42,795 fatalities in car accidents in 2022. The number shows a decrease of 0.3% compared to 2021.
The top causes of car crashes include drunk driving, distracted driving, and speeding. About 35% of fatal vehicular accidents were due to the drivers being intoxicated.
In 2019, there were 4,806 car crashes that resulted in property damage. Around two million passenger vehicles were involved in car crashes which resulted in injuries.
Why You Should Speak With a Car Accident Lawyer Before Filing an Insurance Claim
Before speaking with an insurance company agent to file for a car accident claim, it is important to speak with an auto accident attorney first. Many vehicle accident victims who attempt to pursue a claim on their own wind up settling for much less money than they could have. Due to a lack of information, they simply accept what the insurance company offers. They end up with a lowball settlement offered by the insurance adjuster.
Consulting a lawyer for a car accident case can help victims get the most out of their personal injury protection claims. A car crash victim should get a lawyer who will help him ensure that his own insurance policy works for him and not for the insurance company. Car accident lawyers can also help prove the other driver’s negligence so that the victim can get fair compensation. The damages can be used to cover lost wages, property damage, and medical bills.
Don’t Fight for Your Car Accident Claim Alone
Some people think that they can easily fight for their personal injury claim all by themselves. However, seeking an injury claim without legal representation while recovering from serious injuries can be challenging. A good lawyer establishes who the at-fault driver is, so the plaintiff can seek medical attention and focus on the treatment of his severe injuries.
Even if victims feel fine after a fender bender, calling a reputable personal injury law firm is a must. The negligent driver should be held accountable. Some physical injuries may not manifest themselves immediately. The aggrieved party can also seek compensation for vehicle damage and emotional trauma.
7 Things an Auto Accident Attorney Can Help You With
There are several things that an auto accident attorney can help a crash victim with. Here are some of them.
- Secure a police report that contains detailed information on how the car accident occurred.
- Gather evidence to make the case stronger against the liable party.
- Advise the victim on the entire insurance claim and personal injury claim processes.
- Represent the victim and handle the claims process with the insurance company.
- Negotiate with the insurance adjuster for a fair insurance settlement.
- Represent the victim in an out-of-court settlement with the other party.
- Write a demand letter detailing the facts of the accident, listing down all injuries, itemizing each cost, and specifying the settlement amount.
Some are afraid to get a lawyer, thinking that it will cost them more money. Most law firms offer a free consultation to discuss the client’s situation and what can be done to protect the client’s legal rights.
A Car Accident Lawyer Helps Figure Out What Damages You Are Eligible to Collect
A car accident costs everyone involved money and time. However, identifying the total worth of damages can be difficult. Most victims do not have a fair idea of how much their losses cost when they seek compensation. They just focus on the obvious, such as their medical bills and how much it costs to have a car repaired.
Not knowing the right damages can cost the victim more money. A car accident lawyer can help identify a client’s losses to obtain just compensation and cover for the following:
- Lost wages
- Medical bills, present and future
- Pain and suffering
- Brain bleeding
- Headache
- Chest pains
- Reduced earning capacity
- Reduced quality of life
- Disability
- Property damage
- Vehicle damage
- Punitive damages
When to Handle Your Own Car Accident Claim (Handling Your Own Claim Comes With Risks, but You Can Effectively Represent Yourself in Some Cases)
There are times when a victim can successfully represent himself and not need to hire a lawyer. If a car accident case is simple and straightforward, a victim can process his own claim, even with little to no legal experience.
A victim can handle his own personal injury claim if the driver at fault admits his liability. However, he must also be willing to learn how the claims process works to be successful.
Why Hire a Personal Injury Attorney — Not Just Any Lawyer
When taking legal action, it is important to hire the right lawyer. A personal injury lawyer will work for the victim’s best interests. He has the legal expertise to ensure that the client gets maximum compensation. He will gather evidence and interview witnesses to prove the other driver’s negligence.
A reputable personal injury lawyer works for the people and not insurance companies. He will strive to ensure that the victim gets the damages that he rightfully deserves.
What to Do After a Car Accident
It is easy to feel confused and overwhelmed when in a car accident. However, if possible, it is important for those involved to maintain their wit and take the following steps:
- Call the police and file a police report. A police report is important to support an insurance claim.
- Do not leave the scene of the accident until the authorities say so.
- Seek medical attention and the help of a medical professional.
- Call a reputable personal injury lawyer.
Now Is the Best Time to Get a Car Accident Lawyer for a Car Accident Case. Schedule a Free Consultation.
Personal injury law firms offer free initial consultations to victims of car accidents. Their lawyers provide the necessary legal representation to help car accident victims fight for their legal rights. Look for a reputable law firm that has years of experience in representing people and winning cases. Hire a lawyer who will be with you every step of the way.
The Clark Law Office is a top personal injury firm in Michigan, helping clients recover millions of damages. It provides high-quality legal work and offers years of extensive courtroom experience, so you can count on its lawyers to strive hard for you to win your case.
- Understanding The Impact: What Happens If The Cerebellum Is Damaged? - September 9, 2024
- What is the Speed Limit on Unmarked Roads in Michigan? - September 5, 2024
- What To Do If No Ticket Is Issued: Car Accident Tips for Victims - September 3, 2024
