It’s a question that many car accident victims struggle with. Do I really need a lawyer? Is my case “serious enough”? Can’t I just handle it myself with the insurance company? These are all valid questions, especially when you are already dealing with the stress and expense of an accident.
While there is no single answer that fits every situation, the reality is that the insurance system is not designed to be fair. It is a business, and the goal is to pay out as little as possible. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is the single most effective way to level the playing field and protect your rights. Let’s explore some specific situations where hiring a lawyer is not just a good idea, but essential.
Red Flags: When You Absolutely Need to Call a Lawyer
If any of the following apply to your situation, you should contact a car accident attorney immediately:
1. You or a Passenger Was Injured
This is the most important rule. If you or anyone in your vehicle suffered any injury, you need a lawyer. Even seemingly minor injuries can develop into chronic problems that require extensive medical treatment. An attorney can help you document your injuries, understand your future medical needs, and fight for the full compensation you will need to cover those costs.
2. The Other Driver’s Insurance Company is Blaming You
If the other driver’s insurance company is trying to say that you were partially or entirely at fault for the accident, you are in for a fight. This is a classic tactic to reduce or deny your claim. You need an attorney to investigate the accident and build a case that proves the other driver’s negligence.
3. The Insurance Company is Offering a Quick Settlement
As we’ve discussed before, a quick settlement offer is a major red flag. It means the insurance company knows their driver was at fault and they are trying to get you to accept a lowball offer before you know the true value of your claim. An attorney can evaluate the offer and tell you if it is fair, and if not, negotiate for the amount you truly deserve.
4. The Insurance Company is Delaying or Denying Your Claim
If the adjuster is giving you the runaround, not returning your calls, or has denied your claim for an unfair reason, it is time to lawyer up. This is a clear sign that they are not going to treat you fairly, and you will need legal muscle to force them to.
5. Your Case is Complex
Some accidents are more complex than others. If your accident involved multiple vehicles, a commercial truck, a drunk driver, or an uninsured/underinsured motorist, the legal issues become much more complicated. You need an attorney who understands the specific laws and procedures that apply in these complex cases.
What About a Minor Fender-Bender with No Injuries?
If your accident was truly minor, with only minor property damage and no injuries to anyone, you may be able to handle the claim yourself. However, it is still wise to be cautious. The pain from some injuries can be delayed, and what seems like a minor ache can become a bigger problem later. It never hurts to call an attorney for a free consultation, just to be sure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
A: At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, and our fee is a percentage of the money we recover for you. There is no financial risk to you.
Q: I already gave a recorded statement to the insurance company. Is it too late to hire a lawyer?
A: No, it’s not too late. While it’s not ideal, an experienced attorney can often work to mitigate any damage that may have been done in a recorded statement. The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the better.
Q: How long do I have to decide if I want to hire a lawyer?
A: While you have three years to file a lawsuit, you should not wait that long. As time goes by, evidence disappears and memories fade. It is best to contact an attorney within a week or two of the accident, if possible.
An Advocate in Your Corner
The bottom line is this: the insurance company has a team of professionals working to protect their interests. You deserve to have a professional in your corner, fighting for you. Studies have consistently shown that accident victims who hire a lawyer receive significantly higher settlements than those who handle their claims on their own.
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, we are here to be your advocates. To learn more, please visit our homepage or our main car accident service page. When you’re ready, contact us at (608) 784-4370 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a powerful team on your side.