Some defendants and their insurance companies are quick to gather and preserve all of the evidence that could hurt you. If you do not get a lawyer to represent you – the right way – you are starting your case against the eight ball.
It is important to know if you have suffered serious injury or if you have received a wrongful death benefit from your car accident. The value that an experienced lawyer who has been successful in past cases can deliver depends on the size of the case. If you have a small case, you may be able to argue if you have a good attorney, but doing that can be risky.
There is no reason to think that it is unreasonable to try to represent yourself. But in a case where injuries are serious or if someone kills you, having a good lawyer can make a big difference. It is important that you take advantage of the fact that many car accident lawyers offer free consultations to accident victims.
Sometimes, delaying obtaining a lawyer because you are unsure of the facts or because you think that you have waited too long to file a claim is not likely to cause you to lose your case. Being able to get good advice from an experienced lawyer on the phone can make all the difference in understanding what needs to be done in your case and how urgent it is to hire one.
Some people don't realize that they have options after an accident. Being honest with insurance companies can be difficult. It's critical that you contact your insurance company immediately after you cause an accident; it is not wise to talk to an insurance adjuster who represents the other driver.
Generally, the other driver's insurance company will ask you to give as soon as possible a written account of what happened in the car accident. You do not have to give an official statement to the other driver's insurance company; the other driver's insurance company can ask you for a statement of what happened. If you attempt to give an official account of what happened after the accident while you are still under duress, it may hurt your case. Many times it is difficult to diagnose soft tissue injuries immediately, even if you initially say you feel fine.
Some people don't initially hire a lawyer because they believe that their insurance company will pay their medical bills, car repairs and lost time at work fairly. There are exceptions to the rule. Victims of car accidents are often surprised to find out that insurance companies actually work for the insurance companies and their shareholders.