If you’ve been in a car accident, you may not know what the first steps to be taken are. After all, you’re primarily focused on recovering emotionally and physically, so navigating other aspects of the accident can often be put on the backburner.
One of the things that you may decide to set aside is hiring legal representation, especially if you feel the accident was just that – an accident. However, it’s essential to get a lawyer on board as soon as possible. Even in seemingly faultless situations, an attorney can make things easier for you, especially when it comes to getting the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
Lawyers Know the Law
Laws surrounding car accidents are complex and often vary by state. You have to know how to prove negligence if you suspect the accident is the other person’s fault; you’ll also need to file your case in time. Additionally, you will need to have a plan for going to trial if the other party doesn’t decide to settle.
While you can represent yourself in such situations in court, without a thorough knowledge of the law, you risk losing out on legally mandated compensation. Additionally, having to brush up on the law while you recover from an accident can be stressful and can set your recovery back. This is where a lawyer can help by taking on the legal burden on your behalf and increasing your chances of mounting a successful case.
Lawyers do the Legwork
There’s a lot that goes into working a car accident case, from gathering evidence to hiring experts to provide testimony to back up your claim. Additionally, as the team at Sweeney Merrigan Law, LLP – Boston car accident law firm points out, you’ll also need to be able to stand up to the insurance company if they try to blow you off or settle for a low-ball figure. These negotiations are time-consuming and work-intensive, and there’s a good chance an inexperienced person may make several mistakes.
A lawyer will handle all these details for you and will also file the necessary paperwork to take your case forward. They’ll help you determine what compensation is appropriate to address your needs (so that you don’t accidentally ask for a number that is too low) and then they’ll work to ensure you get it.
There Are No Drawbacks to a Conversation
If you’re unconvinced about whether legal representation is a necessity for your case, you can always have a conversation with a lawyer. Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee and don’t charge for the initial consultation, so you don’t have to worry about the cost. Following your conversation, you can make a fully informed decision about whether hiring a lawyer is the route you want to take.
The days, weeks, and months following a car accident can be some of the toughest of your life, especially if you have been injured as a result of the incident. However, with good legal representation by your side, you can work on getting the compensation you deserve so you can move forward with your life without a massive dent in your bank account.
I’d only use an attorney on a contingency fee basis.
HOWEVER… unless its a ‘slam dunk’ case worth lots of money the attorney WILL expect you to pay for all of the ‘expert testimony’ from witnesses to testify on your behalf, such as doctors.
You will be expected to pay up win or lose.