While you can file a traffic accident claim without an attorney in the state of Indiana, doing so could be a mistake. It is human nature to want to take charge and seek our own justice following a traffic accident. Entering into the claims and negotiating process without a full understanding of Indiana state law, though, can result in serious issues with your claim and could diminish the damages you are owed.
Personal injury attorneys are highly knowledgeable in the law and use their abilities to help guide you to a successful case outcome. Keep reading though, to learn more about why working with a traffic accident claim attorney can help you.
Should I File A Traffic Accident Claim Without an Attorney?
We feel strongly that working with a personal injury attorney when you need to file a traffic accident claim can be beneficial. Personal injury attorneys know the law, and they have extensive experience fighting for their clients with liable parties, their insurance providers, or any other involved party.
Why You Should Choose A Personal Injury Attorney for Your Traffic Accident Claim
Working with a personal injury attorney for your traffic accident claim means you can take advantage of access to your lawyer’s important guidance and communication throughout the claims process. Personal injury attorneys can also aid in:
Recovering Damages
A personal attorney can help you build the list of the damages the liable party or parties might owe you following a traffic accident. These damages might include costs like:
- Expenses to repair or replace your vehicle
- Bills from medical or therapeutic care
- Pain or suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Decreased earning potential
- Current and future lost work wages
Your personal injury attorney will amass the documents that bolster your claim and will work to build the most inclusive list of damages to support your right to compensation during negotiations with the liable party’s insurance providers. They will also make sure you do not miss out on any compensation you deserve.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
The insurance companies representing the at-fault party or parties in your traffic accident might try to offer you a mediocre but fast settlement in the hopes that you will not pursue more compensation. Instead of immediately accepting such low-ball offers, you should reach out to your personal injury attorney to begin developing your case.
Your personal injury attorney will keep your best interests in mind when negotiating with these insurance companies. At the same time, your personal injury attorney can apply their experience in the field during these negotiations. This combination, along with the facts and evidence surrounding the scenario, can lay the groundwork for the settlement you desire.
Why You Do Not Want to Hire a Discount Lawyer
Many people think they should hire a lawyer who charges less, but these discount lawyers are often jacks of all trades who do not have the knowledge to successfully handle your case.
Statute of Limitations for Traffic Accident Claims
Traffic accident injuries fall under the control of the state of Indiana’s statute of limitations (IC 34-11-2), which limits most personal injury victims to only two years following their accident to file a court case. If you are filing a claim against a city or state entity, the statute of limitations could be even shorter (IC 34-13-3).
This could pass seemingly in a blink of an eye. In addition, as is the case with many accidents, the crucial evidence that might help your case can begin to wear away as time passes. Witnesses’ recollections become fuzzier, and evidence, like skid or impact marks, often fade or are repaired.
This is why acting fast to reach out to a personal injury lawyer is important: it both ensures your claims will be filed in time and it also offers a greater likelihood that all possible evidence can be presented.
Contact a Traffic Accident Attorney Today
You can file a traffic accident claim without an attorney. When you work with a personal injury attorney you can set yourself on course for a better resolution. Sevenish Law Firm, P.C. has devoted our practice to personal injury law, which means that their team that knows what it takes to get the claim results you want. We want to put our knowledge of Indiana personal injury law to use in your case. Contact us to schedule your free case review: (317) 636-7777.