Three Situations Where You Should Hire An Attorney After A Car Accident

Car accidents, unfortunately, are prevalent. Some accidents are so minor that each motorist leaves the scene, never speaking to each other again after reporting the accident to the police. Other accidents lead to nominal damages, and you might file a claim with your insurance provider or the other motorist's insurance policy. However, there are some circumstances in which you will need to get a car accident attorney involved.

1. Hire an Attorney If Your Injuries Are Severe

One important consideration is how severe your injuries are. You might not be entitled to a substantial settlement if you are not severely injured. On the other hand, if you are significantly injured, your case is more likely to be complicated, and you'll need help from a car accident attorney to sort through the claim.

2. Hire an Attorney If You Don't Know Who Is at Fault

Another reason to work with an attorney is if it's unclear who is at fault for the accident. Determining liability is one of the most complicated parts of a car accident claim because gathering the evidence needed to prove fault can be challenging. For example, you may need to interview eyewitnesses. Some forms of evidence you'll only have access to with the help of an expert witness.

After the accident, you should find out who is at fault. Fortunately, you can talk with your attorney, and they'll let you know whether they think you'd be considered partially or fully at fault based on their evaluation of the case.

3. Hire an Attorney If Your Claim Is Denied

If you believe you don't need a lawyer, you might file a claim with an insurance provider only to find that your claim is denied. Even so, it would be best not to assume that you don't have a case. You have the right to appeal a claim denial and have someone else look at your claim. You also have the right to take an insurance provider to court.

When an auto insurance provider denies a claim, they must give a good reason for rejecting it, which they must send to you in writing. If your attorney still believes you have a valid claim, they might encourage you to take the auto insurance provider to court.

To do so, you must gather evidence to build a strong case. Then, you must participate in the discovery process. Both you and the other party will be able to ask questions. Then, you will go to trial, and your attorney will represent you in court. 

For more information, contact a local auto accident attorney.