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Do I Need to Hire a Car Accident Attorney?
August 15th, 2023
The aftermath of a car accident is never easy — especially if you suffered an injury. You may require extensive medical treatment, lose time from work, and experience a considerable amount of physical pain and emotional anguish. In addition, the insurance company may call you to seek information and make you feel pressured to settle. During this time, it is best to have the representation of a personal injury attorney to take the burden off your shoulders and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Here are several critical reasons why you should hire a car accident attorney after your car crash:
An Attorney Will Know the Applicable State Laws
Car accident cases can involve a number of highly nuanced state laws. It is vital to have the representation of an attorney in the jurisdiction where the accident occurred — not only will they be familiar with the applicable state statutes, but they will also have knowledge of the local court procedures.
They Will Know How to Obtain the Maximum Compensation to Which You Are Entitled
Although the insurance company may make a lowball settlement offer shortly after the accident, the full extent of your damages cannot be known this early in the case. When you hire a car accident attorney, you can rest assured that they won’t allow you to settle for less than you deserve. You may be entitled to compensation for your unreimbursed medical expenses, out-of-pocket costs, lost wages, future lost earnings, and pain and suffering. An attorney will understand how to properly value your claim and know when it is best to settle — or if your case should proceed to trial.
They Will Communicate with the Insurance Company
Once you are represented by counsel, the insurance company is no longer permitted to communicate with you directly. Your attorney will speak with the insurance adjusters on your behalf and know how to effectively negotiate with them. A car accident attorney will have deep insight regarding how the settlement process works and understand the tactics insurance companies use in an attempt to reduce your payout.
An Attorney Will Know the Evidence Needed to Prove Your Case
In order to prove liability and damages, you will need a substantial amount of evidence to support your claim. A personal injury attorney will know what evidence will strengthen your case and how to obtain it. They will also have a comprehensive understanding of the discovery process used in litigation and know how to conduct depositions, use interrogatories, and request documents.
An Attorney Can Protect Your Rights
Many people do not fully understand their rights in a personal injury case. An experienced personal injury attorney can advise you regarding your rights and work to safeguard them. In addition, there is a specific statute of limitation in every personal injury action — if you miss the deadline to file a lawsuit, you will be forever barred from bringing a claim for compensation. A personal injury attorney will be aware of the applicable statute of limitation in your case and ensure you comply with it.
You Will Not Pay Attorneys’ Fees Unless You Prevail in Your Case
As medical bills and lost wages quickly accumulate, many people may be hesitant to spend money to hire a car accident attorney after a car crash. However, it is essential to be aware that most personal injury attorneys in Washington take cases on a contingency basis. In other words, you do not have to pay legal fees for your case upfront — your attorney only gets compensated if your receive a settlement or verdict.
A Car Accident Attorney Will Have Courtroom Experience
In many cases, a car accident claim is settled through negotiations with the insurance company. But if the insurance company refuses to pay out the compensation to which you are rightfully entitled, it may be necessary to bring your case to trial to achieve the best possible outcome. A skillful car accident attorney can help you navigate the litigation process, develop a strategy in your case, and fight for your rights at trial.
A Knowledgeable Attorney Can Help You Avoid Mistakes in Your Case
Personal injury matters are complex, and every case is unique. By working with a personal injury attorney, you will have legal counsel on your side who can advise you every step of the way. They can also help you avoid inadvertently making costly mistakes that could harm your case or reduce its value.
Contact an Experienced Washington Car Accident Attorney
When you hire a car accident attorney, you can be confident in knowing you have an advocate on your side who will strive to obtain the monetary recovery you deserve. The Bellingham personal injury attorneys at Robinson & Kole provide committed counsel to car accident victims throughout Washington State and work to secure the best possible results in every case. We welcome you to contact us for a free consultation by calling 800.640.5616 or by using our online contact form. Se habla Español.