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Signs You Should Hire an Attorney After a Car Accident

On Behalf of | May 30, 2019 | Firm News

Although the days immediately following a car accident can be difficult, they are also crucial for ensuring that you are adequately compensated. Here’s how to tell if you should contact a lawyer after a wreck.

There’s a Chance Someone Was Injured

Thankfully, not all car accidents result in serious injuries. However, even if everyone involved in an accident seems fine at first, injuries such as whiplash may take hours or even days to manifest. If there’s a chance that you or a loved one has been injured, you should seek medical attention immediately. Then, reach out to an attorney to begin the legal process.

Visible or Invisible Car Damage

Similarly, car damage isn’t always clear-cut. Though the exterior may only look slightly scuffed, the engine, axle, or other parts of the car may also be damaged. If your vehicle has damage that’s hard to capture in pictures, you may want to have a lawyer on your side to deal with the insurance companies.

It’s Unclear Who Was at Fault

No one ever wants to accept that they were at fault for a car accident. But if it’s unclear who was liable for a wreck you were involved in, you should contact an attorney immediately. A lawyer can use the police report and their knowledge of liability law to collect evidence and build a case.

One Party Suggests Settling Out of Court

Most people don’t want to go to court after an accident, especially uninsured drivers. Although a settlement offer may appear to meet your needs, it’s easy to overlook the additional costs and expenses a serious accident can incur. Before settling out of court, you should contact a lawyer to perform due diligence and asses the actual costs.

More Than Two Parties Were Involved

Accidents between two cars are often complicated. Attempting to settle a case with three or more parties only compounds the possibility of overlooking several factors. In these situations, an experienced attorney can use their expertise to break down the complex negotiations of a multi-car accident.

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, you should reach out to a personal injury attorney to advocate for the compensation you need to cover your expenses. The staff at Smith Shanklin Sosa can help connect you with medical help and protect your rights in court. For a free consultation, contact us today at 225-424-6094.