Car accidents may be devastating, with emotional and physical impacts that might make most victims feel helpless about their next move. One central question people ponder is the necessity of hiring auto accidents attorneys in San Francisco.
In this article, we will answer the key questions that appear in your mind when contemplating whether legal assistance is called for or even justified in case of a car accident.
How Do Car Accident Lawyers Work?
There will be instances in which legal assistance comes in handy following an automobile accident, mainly when severe damages and injuries occur. San Francisco automobile accident attorneys defend their clients in court as they manage the process of requesting fair compensation for property damage, lost earnings, and medical costs. Thus, knowledgeable attorneys will help you avoid taking a lower offer than you are due.
Key Benefits of Hiring an Attorney
- Experience. Lawyers know the legal system inside and out; therefore, they will be able to negotiate on your behalf.
- Appropriate evaluation. With lawyers around, you will correctly calculate the compensation you should get.
- Dealing with the insurance company. They communicate well with insurance companies and hence will prevent them from trying to minimize the pay-up sum.
Do You Always Need an Attorney?
Not all car accidents require legal intervention. You may not need a lawyer if minor fender benders are involved and no injuries or damages occur. However, in those cases that involve major injuries or disputed liability, you’ll most definitely want to get an attorney. An attorney’s expertise will be very important to help you go through this complex process of gathering evidence, filing claims, and proving fault.
When to Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident
Determining when to hire an attorney following a car accident may be tricky, but some situations will almost certainly require legal assistance. For instance:
- Serious injuries. If one of the passengers of your vehicle has been badly injured.
- Unclear liability. When one party or another disputes liability.
- Insurance company disputes. When the insurance company either refuses to pay or does not adequately value the claim.
What to Expect When You Work with an Attorney
For most clients, retaining a car accident attorney can be painless and easy. Normally, an attorney will be able to:
- Assess your case, and at the same time gather all the necessary evidence, including police reports, medical records, and statements from witnesses.
- Communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf.
- Develop a good case when litigation cannot be avoided.
Most consultations are free, and most will not take any money from you until they have settled your case, a practice known as contingency.
Steps to Take After Your Car Accident
In addition to consulting with an attorney, there are several essential things that you should do following your car accident to protect your legal rights:
- Safety first. Check for injuries; call emergency services if necessary.
- Document the scene. Take photos and speak with anyone who may have witnessed what happened. Get contact information from witnesses.
- Report the accident. In every incident, a report should be filed with the police and with your insurance company.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor to rule out hidden injuries.
For more information on the necessary steps, see what to do after a car accident to ensure the right actions are taken.
Can an Attorney Help Maximize Your Settlement?
An attorney will review your case and determine how much compensation you are entitled to. This will include medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and future rehabilitation costs. Initial settlement offers by insurance companies are usually very low. An attorney will negotiate total compensation on your behalf.
Common Types of Compensation
- Medical bills. Past, current, and future medical expenses.
- Lost wages. Compensation for missed work due to injuries.
- Pain and suffering. The non-economic damages include mental distress and physical pain.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
Ultimately, whether to hire an attorney or not after a car accident comes down to the severity of the accident and how complicated your case may be. A lawyer can be of immense value if you are dealing with injuries, liability that is in dispute, or problems with insurance. If you are in San Francisco, California, then it would be wise to seek the best auto accident attorney in San Francisco to save time, avoid stress, and get the compensation you deserve.