Is it Worth Getting a Lawyer for a Car Accident?

Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer

Dealing with insurance companies and legal claims after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from your injuries. Here are several ways a car accident attorney can help:

• Reducing stress: Filing a car accident claim can be stressful and time-consuming. Hiring a car accident attorney allows you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case.
• Expert knowledge and experience: Personal injury lawyers often specialize in car accident cases. They understand the laws, procedures, and strategies needed to build a strong case, increasing your chances of getting a fair car accident settlement.
• Evidence gathering: Your lawyer will gather crucial evidence to support your claim. This includes obtaining police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available video footage. Proper evidence collection strengthens your case and increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
• Accurate claim assessment: Determining the value of your claim involves adding up economic losses like medical bills and lost wages, but it also goes well beyond this. A car accident injury lawyer can accurately assess the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses, lost earning potential, pain and suffering, and more. An accurate assessment ensures you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
• Protecting your rights: After an accident, it’s easy to make mistakes that could harm your claim. A car accident attorney ensures your rights are protected throughout the process. They advise you on what to say and do, preventing you from making statements or decisions that could be used against you by insurance companies.
• Effective negotiation skills: Insurance companies tend to offer low settlements immediately after the accident in an attempt to minimize payouts. Don’t fall for this trick—instead, speak with an experienced car accident lawyer first to see if the settlement is fair. If not, the lawyer will put their negotiating skills to work. They can handle all communications, present compelling evidence, and advocate on your behalf to secure a better settlement.
• Contingency fee basis: Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This makes legal representation affordable, as you don’t have to worry about upfront costs.

When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

Not every car accident requires legal representation. For instance, fender benders are typically easy to manage through your insurance company. However, here are the situations where hiring a lawyer is highly recommended:

• Severe injury or death: If you or a passenger sustained serious injuries, became permanently disabled, or was killed in the collision, hiring a car accident injury lawyer is crucial. Severe injuries often involve high medical costs and long-term care needs, while wrongful death can be emotionally devastating and have significant financial consequences for you and your loved ones. An attorney can help you obtain compensation that reflects the long-term impact on your life.
• Disputed liability: If there are disputes over who was at fault for the accident, an attorney can help gather evidence and build a strong case to establish liability. Proving that the other party was at least partly responsible is essential for securing compensation.
• Insurance issues: When an insurance company denies your claim, offers a low settlement, or delays payment, it’s time to consult a car accident lawyer. They have the expertise to challenge these tactics and fight for your rights.
• Complex cases: Accidents involving multiple parties, commercial vehicles, rideshare drivers, or hit-and-run situations tend to be more complicated. A lawyer can navigate your complex case and ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.

Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys in Tracy, CA

California law isn’t always easy to understand. It’s tempting to accept a low settlement and move on, but if you do, you could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table. Get the help you need navigating the aftermath of a car accident—turn to Bakerink, McCusker & Belden for expert legal advice.

Our car accident attorneys in Tracy, CA, have over 35 years of experience providing the guidance our clients need and deserve. We work on a contingency basis, so you don’t have to worry about high upfront fees. Contact us at (209) 835-9592 today for your free, no-obligation case evaluation. Let us fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.