With car accidents being on the rise due to an increase in the number of road users, it’s wise to make sure you know your rights if ever you end up in such a situation. No matter which side of the argument you are on, the victim or the person at fault, car accident lawyers can help you come to an agreement and settle the issue more peacefully.
Not all car accidents will require the help of a lawyer, but there are some warning signs that you may need to reach out for help.
Look at the signs to know what to look out for.
1. Your Claim is Worth More
On many occasions, a victim knows that their claim is worth a lot more than is offered. From loss of earnings to future diminishment of enjoyment of certain activities, there are various factors to look at when calculating your true loss caused by the accident.
It’s important to get the help of a professional to truly see the value of what you are entitled to. Without such help, you may be given a low offer from an insurance company. A lawyer can advise you better on whether the claim is reasonable and help you to reply to such offers.
2. You Are Seriously Injured
Many claimants do not realize the true impact of their injuries, and this is where a car accident lawyer can help by estimating future losses stemming from the injuries. The more severe the injuries, the higher and more detailed the claim will be, so it is imperative that you are supported by professionals who understand every aspect of the lengthy paperwork and legal terminology that may be used.
Serious injury may also render you stuck in a hospital and there are issues such as medical expenses to sort out, which the lawyer can help you deal with while you are vulnerable.
3. A Child Was Injured
When a child is involved in a car accident, the case becomes much more complex. There is a separate set of legal rules to abide by when making a claim on behalf of a child, and to be successful and well-informed, it’s highly advisable to have a professional assist with this.
4. You Are at Fault
If, in the event you’re fully at fault for the accident, then your claim will likely be refused; however, if you are only partly to blame, then you can still pursue your claim. Don’t simply agree with an insurance company that accuses you of being at fault. By hiring a car accident lawyer, the case can be looked at in more detail to determine the true level of fault on your behalf and develop tactics to prove your lack of blame.
It’s also important to act fast in this case as you may need to quickly gather witness statements to avoid blame, and the lawyer will assist with all of this.
5. Time Limits
In some cases, claimants may fall outside of the limitation period and insurance companies will simply deny their claims based on the time limits. However, there are cases in which time limits can be challenged and overridden. If you are having issues and are being denied due to timing, a lawyer can help you decide on your next move and possibly save the claim.
6. Expert Evidence
In many cases, expert reports from medical professionals or therapists may be needed. It’s vital that you use the correct expert, and if the other party is using an expert, you need to be able to challenge and understand the evidence against you.
A lawyer can help review all the evidence and ensure you have the right expert, while interpreting the other parties’ expert reports for you.
In some car accident cases, legal advice may not be needed, but if you are unsure about any aspects of your claim, it’s wise to seek professional advice to either defend yourself or claim what you are entitled to.