When you are involved in a car accident, multiple investigations will begin. First, law enforcement officers will arrive to the scene of the crash, taking photos, talking with witnesses and trying to piece together what happened to cause the collision. They will also file an official report that includes any citations they issued against the driver at fault.
Then, insurance companies will get to work. Each of these insurers will have their own attorneys and claims professionals who are looking to pay out as little as possible to injured victims. This is why you need an experienced lawyer on your side to protect your interests and ensure that you are adequately compensated for your losses.
A good Car Accident Legal Aid will review your case for free and help you determine the extent of your injuries and losses. Depending on the specifics of your case, these may include medical bills, property damage, future medical treatment, lost wages and reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, mental health issues, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, you may be able to recover punitive damages in addition to compensatory ones if the at-fault party was especially reckless or negligent.
It is important to seek medical attention soon after a crash. Not only does this allow you to receive prompt care for your injuries, but it also provides documentation that can be used in a lawsuit. You need medical records to prove that you were hurt in the accident and that your injuries have caused real, quantifiable losses. In many cases, an insurance company will attempt to use your lack of documentation as an excuse to pay you less than you deserve.
A seasoned car accident attorney will gather all of the evidence and documents you need to make your case. This may include police reports, photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records that demonstrate the severity of your injuries. They will also take the time to meet with you face to face and discuss how the collision has impacted your life.
Depending on the type of injury you suffered, your attorney will advise you about how much compensation you should receive to cover all of your losses. They will also explain any time limits you must comply with or else your claim could be denied.
Most car accident attorneys will handle your case on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay them unless you win your claim. Even then, your lawyer’s fee will be a percentage of the amount you recover. This is an incentive for them to fight for the best result for you. In some cases, you may be billed at an hourly rate. If this is the case, it is a good idea to ask about this upfront so that you are aware of what to expect from your attorney. If you are struggling to pay for an attorney, there are programs that can help.