3 Things to Expect From Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
Posted on: 20 December 2021
After a car accident, you have many things to worry about – injuries, medical expenses, property damage, and dealing with insurance companies. But you don't have to face all these battles alone.
A car accident attorney can help deal with your personal injury case while you focus on recovery. But perhaps this is your first auto accident, so you don't know how the process works. Don't worry; here are three things to expect from your car accident attorney.
Expect Your Attorney to Gather Evidence
Soon after the crash, the evidence begins to fade. The eyewitnesses move away from the scene and forget the details while the vehicles involved are towed to a salvage yard or auto repair shop. Therefore, it's advisable to call your attorney immediately after the accident.
Car accident attorneys have various ways of collecting evidence. These may include reviewing accident scene photos, video footage, statements from witnesses, accident reports, and medical records.
But, even if you were unable to call your attorney after the accident, for example, because you were rushed to the hospital first, you can hire them when you're ready. In such a case, they can work with an accident reconstruction expert to determine how the crash happened and who was responsible.
Expect Your Attorney to Provide Answers
Most auto accident victims aren't familiar with the law or the personal injury claims process. Hence, it's expected that you will have multiple questions. Luckily, your accident injury attorney has handled hundreds, if not thousands, of car accident cases. They can provide accurate answers to all the questions you might have.
To ensure a smooth process, you should discuss with your attorney about the communication channels to use. For example, it might be better to send all your day's or week's questions in one email instead of calling your attorney a few times a day. That way, they will have enough time to find answers and get back to you with detailed information.
Expect Your Attorney to Handle Insurance Companies
Without legal backup, your insurer may not offer you a fair settlement, even if you have legitimate claims. In most cases, they will present an initial offer that doesn't match the losses you have suffered. If you don't know your claim's worth, you may accept that offer, only to realize later it's not sufficient for your medical expenses.
Your car accident attorney knows all the tricks that insurers use to lowball injury victims. They will negotiate on your behalf and present evidence that proves the other driver's liability. Most importantly, they will calculate how much your losses are worth and then fight for you, so you can receive fair compensation.
Share