Got into a car wreck and wondering if you need a lawyer?
Millions of automobile accidents occur throughout the United States each year. Some are minor fender benders. Others are life altering. The hard part is determining when an accident crosses that line.
Here are some secrets…
Most people don’t realize how quickly insurance companies will move to cut their losses. Without the right legal advice, victims of car accidents find themselves low-balled and short-changed.
What you’re going to learn:
- Why Rear End Collisions Require Legal Attention
- Warning Signs That Clearly Indicate You Need A Lawyer
- Why Insurance Companies Work Against You
- When To Pick Up The Phone
Why Rear End Collisions Require Legal Attention
Rear end collisions are some of the most common automobile accidents on the road today. In fact, the NHTSA states that these accidents account for approximately 29% of all motor vehicle accidents nationwide.
That’s a lot of car wrecks.
Sure, many people tend to shrug off a rear end collision as “no big deal.” But what may seem like a minor impact can often come with serious injury. Whiplash, herniated discs, spinal damage and traumatic brain injuries are only a few common ailments that occur from these types of wrecks.
The problem is…
Symptoms of a rear end collision may not be present immediately. Often times it takes days or even weeks for injuries to become noticeable. By then, many accident victims have already spoken with the insurance company and accepted their initial offer.
This is why you should always speak with a qualified New York auto accident attorney that specializes in rear end collisions BEFORE making a decision. An attorney can sit down with you and assess the situation so you know your legal options.
Extremely important stuff.
Warning Signs That Clearly Indicate You Need A Lawyer
Not every car wreck requires a lawyer. But there are definite signs when legal help is needed. These are some red flags to look out for…
Someone was Injured
If anyone was injured during the accident, you should contact a lawyer. Even if the injury is minor.
Nail yourself together as much as you want. You’re still going to end up with medical bills.
Medical bills equal lost wages. Lost wages equal financial stress that compounds itself rapidly.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, vehicular accidents are the leading cause of injury based hospitalization in the United States. If you ended up laying in a hospital bed after your accident, chances are you need a lawyer to help protect your rights.
Don’t take chances with your future. Call an attorney if anyone involved in the accident was injured.
The Other Driver Was At Fault
Let’s say you got hit by another driver who just wasn’t paying attention. They were distracted, reckless or just negligent.
Does that mean you shouldn’t get a lawyer? Nope.
Why? Because determining fault isn’t always as cut and dry as you may think. Insurance companies work for a reason. And the at-fault driver’s insurance will do everything in their power to save money.
Hiring a lawyer ensures they’ll have a much more difficult time doing that.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
This is dangerous territory…
Insurance companies have adjusters for a reason. They know how to settle claims as quickly and as low as possible.
Sure, they might act nice over the phone. But don’t be fooled…
Their goal is to save one penny at your expense.
Some tricks insurance companies will play:
- Lowballing accident victims with a quick settlement offer
- Asking you to give a recorded statement that can be used against you later on
- Claiming your injuries are not as serious as you think
- Dragging their feet during the claims process
Once you suspect one (or all) of the above is happening… hang up the phone and contact a lawyer immediately.
You Disagree On Who Caused The Accident
Okay, let’s say you were involved in a rear end collision…
Who is typically at fault in most cases? The driver who hit you from behind.
But what if you were stopped at a light? Or what if you slammed on your brakes for no reason? There are exceptions to every rule.
If you and the other driver dispute who was at fault, you need legal representation to protect yourself.
How Insurance Companies Work Against You
Sorry to burst your bubble…
Insurance companies are a business. They care about one thing and one thing only. Making money.
And any amount of money they give you in a settlement is money taken from their profit.
That’s why insurance companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters dedicated to paying you as little as possible. When you battle an insurance company on your own, you are EXTREMELY at a disadvantage.
Here’s why:
When you hire a lawyer, that company has professionals on their side. Medical professionals, legal experts and decades of experience handling these types of cases. You don’t stand a chance fighting them yourself.
An experienced attorney knows how to negotiate with insurance companies. They understand how the game is played and will fight for what you deserve.
When To Pick Up The Phone
The sooner, the better.
You should contact a lawyer after a car wreck as soon as you can. Why? A few reasons…
- Evidence is lost. Think about it. As time goes on, important evidence will disappear. Whether it be witnesses, video surveillance or even simple skid marks on the road.
- Statute of limitations. Each state has a time limit on when you can file a personal injury claim. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to sue.
- Medical treatment. Speaking with a lawyer early on will allow all of your injuries to be treated and documented correctly.
Don’t wait for the insurance company to call you. Don’t wait until you’ve received your first doctor’s bill. And please, for the sake of your health… don’t wait for your injuries to get worse.
The longer you wait, the weaker your case will be.
Wrapping Up
So when should you hire a lawyer after a car wreck? If you noticed any of the signs above, it might be time to dial the numbers.
Car accidents can be overwhelming. Dealing with insurance companies and trying to understand your legal rights shouldn’t be one of your stresses. A qualified rear end collision lawyer will take that stress away and focus on what you deserve.
Hit that phone and dial up your future…
