Understanding Why You Need an Attorney after a Car Accident
Receiving a maximum settlement after a car accident can be a difficult and complicated process. It is never a good decision to attempt handling a personal injury claim without the benefit of at least discussing the situation with an experienced car accident attorney. This is especially true in states that use "no fault" insurance or pure comparative negligence doctrine when settling a car accident case. This is an explanation of why you should never do this alone.
Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?
Yes. Car accidents are always defended vigorously by responsible insurance providers who are attempting to reduce the total payout in a claim. They are obligated only to their negligent client and their employing insurance company. In addition, there may be multiple negligent parties in an accident when several cars are involved, with each driver having an insurance company, hopefully. There may also be potential for legal action against a manufacturer when parts malfunction. Car accident cases can get complicated quickly, and having an attorney means that all avenues of financial recourse are investigated.
Dealing with the insurance companies
In states using "no fault" insurance, there will be at least two insurance companies involved in settling the case. And, one of them will be your personal insurance provider because they will be the first company responsible for medical bills, which could put you in an adversarial position with your own insurance company. When your personal injury protection is expired, there will then be certain rules pertaining to whether more damages can be pursued with other parties. This situation always requires an attorney for property damage claims.
Comparative negligence application
All drivers in an accident are also assessed a comparative negligence percentage by the court, and the insurance companies will assuredly attempt to increase the negligence percentage of the injured claimant. Insurance company adjusters are trained professional negotiators, just like attorneys, and an injured claimant is no match for their professionalism. Your car accident attorney can help keep your percentage to a minimum while questioning the logic of the insurance companies as well as the accident reconstruction officer. A full equitable settlement for any car accident will require the services of an experienced car accident attorney.
