Even if you were only involved in a minor car accident, you might want the guidance of a lawyer. A lawyer can provide you with many services to help you navigate the insurance and legal issues you face when you file a claim. Importantly, an initial consultation with an attorney regarding your case is usually free. Your attorney can advise you on the strength of your case and if it is worth pursuing a claim for compensation from the other driver.
If you are wondering if you need a lawyer for a minor car accident, consider some of the most important situations where you could benefit from legal advice.
When You Need a Lawyer
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), there are more than 6.7 million car accidents every year in the United States. Many of these accidents are relatively minor.
Ultimately, if you would like to have someone help you manage your claim and negotiate a settlement, you may want to hire a lawyer. While it is possible to take on some accident cases on your own, an attorney will be able to advise you on important legal details that you may not be aware of. The following circumstances tend to involve more complexity and may benefit from the assistance of an attorney.
Bodily Injuries
If you suffered an injury in an accident, it is best that you speak with an attorney right away. This is true even if the injury seems relatively minor. In some cases, a seemingly minor injury can worsen over time. An attorney can assess a case value in a situation where you have ongoing therapy needs or ongoing complications from an injury accident. Your attorney can review all the costs related to your injuries and calculate a case value that reflects your medical costs and other losses.
Bodily injury claims are complex aspects of a car accident settlement. To pursue many forms of compensation you may be entitled to claim, speak with an attorney right away. Without the guidance of legal counsel, you could be missing out on seeking a monetary award you did not know you were eligible to recover.
Impending Legal Deadlines
If you want to file a personal injury claim, keep in mind the state’s statute of limitations. Each state deals with this important deadline differently. In Indiana, the statute of limitations is governed by IC 34-11-2-4. If you do not file your lawsuit within the time allowed, the court has the right to dismiss your case permanently.
If you have waited to pursue your legal claim, you could be facing the hard deadline known as the statute of limitations. In this case, it is important that you seek legal counsel right away. An attorney could ensure that you comply with the statute of limitations in your case.
Disputed Liability
One of the most important situations where an attorney could be useful is in cases where liability is disputed. If the other driver alleges that you are responsible for the crash, they could pursue their own claim for compensation against you. A personal injury lawyer could not only review your case but also advise you on whether you face any potential liability of your own.
For a free legal consultation, call 317-636-7777
How an Attorney Could Help
There are multiple benefits that come from working closely with legal counsel. Your attorney will step in right away, evaluating the facts of your accident. Not only can your attorney tell you if it is worth pursuing your claim, they can also advise you on your potential liability from a third-party claim.
Your attorney can also help negotiate a settlement on your behalf. In cases with minor property damage, settlements are not uncommon. That does not mean the insurance company will treat you fairly if you act without a lawyer. Your attorney can ensure you pursue an offer that reflects your losses.
In some cases, your best option after an accident might be to file a claim through your own insurance policy. This could involve a comprehensive coverage claim or even a claim on an uninsured motorist policy. In either case, your attorney can assist you in communicating with the insurance company and compiling records to prove your claim.
Discuss Your Accident with an Attorney
If you are wondering whether you need a lawyer for a minor car accident, you may want to consider the benefits of hiring a lawyer. An attorney might advise you that you are entitled to seek a larger compensation than you realize, for instance. Alternatively, pursuing a claim for some minor accidents could result in a claim against you. An attorney can advise you on your rights and help you determine what is in your best interest.
The attorneys of Sevenish Law Firm, P.C. are here to help you after an accident. We work exclusively on personal injury cases, so we understand the many complexities involved in these kinds of cases. To discuss your options with our team, call (317) 636-7777 to schedule a free consultation right away.
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