When is the Best Time to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

If you have been involved in an automobile accident and you have decided to hire an attorney, then it is best to do it quickly. While you may be dealing with a lot after the crash, including injuries, it is important to speak to a legal professional soon after the crash. Here is why:

• To Meet the Legal Deadlines

There are several deadlines that you need to know and meet to increase your chances of winning the case. One common deadline is the statute of limitations, which determines the time by which your car accident case must be filed. 

Unfortunately, you will be barred from getting any compensation if the statute of limitations expires. A good lawyer will know about this deadline and other lesser-known deadlines, all of which will are important for your case.

• Protect Evidence

If you don’t hire an attorney right away, vital evidence can disappear and this can lower your chances of winning the case. An experienced attorney will collect evidence like tire marks and vehicle parts in good time so he/she could use them to give you a fair hearing. Otherwise, the at-fault party can clear this evidence and make it difficult for your case against them. 

• Witnesses can Forget

Witnesses play a key role in ensuring that you get a favorable judgment. However, over time, their memories can fade and some can lose interest in the case. They may even fear sharing with lawyers what they saw during the accident. That is why you need to get a lawyer who will not delay in contacting the witnesses and keep a record of their written or verbal statements. 

• To Help You Get Medical Treatment

If you have injuries from a car accident and lack health insurance, you can greatly benefit from the knowledge of an attorney. Lawyers that have been in the industry for a while will steer you in the right direction to get medical treatment.

• You Lost a Loved One

If you’ve lost a loved one as a result of an accident caused by another party, then you need to hire an attorney to help you file for a wrongful death lawsuit. An attorney can help you understand the process of filing this case and ensure that you obtain the right compensation. 

• Handle Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are not out to make friendships but to discount your claims. They may contact you and try to phish for information that will put you at fault and give you no option but to settle for low compensation. 

Therefore, you need a lawyer to handle the insurance company and ensure that you don’t settle for low- ball settlement. They will take into consideration all your expenses and come up with an accurate figure. This is particularly important if you have suffered permanent injuries that have severely impacted your life. 

• Accident Caused by Government Agency

Filing a case for an accident caused by a government entity can be tricky. For this reason, you need to hire an attorney with a vast knowledge of filing a lawsuit against a government agency to help you. Otherwise, your case might be dismissed without you getting the compensation you deserve.

How to Pick a Car Accident Lawyer

Now that you know when to hire a car accident attorney, you are probably wondering who to pick. Below are some tips on how to choose the right personal injury attorney.

• Experienced

Look for an experienced car accident attorney who knows all the ins and outs of this type of case. They should be conversant with all the potential damages and injuries to seek the best possible compensation for you. 

The attorney should also have in-depth knowledge of the law and understand how the court interprets them. When you have such a lawyer, you will put more focus on your recovery as they handle the case. 

• Licensed

Make sure that the attorney of your choice is licensed to operate in your state. Do extensive online research and visit their website to ensure that they are licensed and reputable. You can also contact the state bar association to acquire more information about them.

• Good Negotiation Skills

As aforementioned, the insurance companies are out to ensure that you settle for a low-ball settlement. Therefore, you need an attorney with exceptional negotiation skills until you get a better compensation amount. Furthermore, they should have trial experience and not dread the idea to represent you in court, if necessary.

• Offers Free Consultation

Reputable attorneys will offer a free consultation, where you can share the details of your case. On the other hand, they should be willing to listen to your case and answer any questions that you might ask. Use this time to narrow down your list of prospects, so that you only hire one that will give you the best chance for success.

Have you suffered a significant injury and are now dealing with rising medical bills? Look for a knowledgeable car accident lawyer that will file your claim and negotiate the full compensation amount with the insurance company. 

I'd be happy to hear from you and answer your questions.  And I'd love to handle your case if you want me to.  No pressure, no obligtion.  Or fill out the form below to get a free copy of my "Injury Cheat Sheet"!

I have helped thousands of people have a quick and stress free car accident settlement and I can probably help you, too.