When you’ve been injured in a car accident, it can feel overwhelming to seek out the help of a lawyer. Maybe your injuries have you feeling less than your best, or you’re missing valuable time away from work. Your car might be totaled or in need of extensive repairs, leaving you trying to line up transportation for yourself or your kids. You might also be asking yourself if the situation is worth the expense of hiring a lawyer.No matter the outcome of your car accident, you should never go it alone when it comes to taking on the law; there are several reasons why it’s in your best interest to hire an attorney.

Why hiring an attorney matters

Technically, you can file a personal injury claim against an insurance company by yourself. Some people choose this route when they’ve suffered only minor injuries and have the time to research the legal claims process. However, a personal injury lawyer can help you go up against big auto insurance companies and their team of lawyers. Your lawyer already knows the personal injury laws and rules and can effectively handle all the red tape for you, acting as your advocate throughout the entire case. While it might seem tempting to go it alone as a way to reduce your expenses, here are a few reasons why it’s imperative to hire a lawyer after your accident:

• Lawyers help you understand all your potential damages. After a car accident, there are many potential damages available to those who were involved. In addition to medical bills, you might be able to claim pain and suffering, lost wages and emotional distress. Without the knowledge of an attorney, you might not be aware of all of your potential legal rights.
• Lawyers know proving liability is complicated. Even if you’re in a situation where witnesses and a police statement dictate that the other party is at fault, proving this can be difficult. There are many factors that go into winning a lawsuit, so you want to hire a lawyer who fully understands this area of law. On the same note, proving your case might be complicated, requiring extensive legal research to convince the court to side with you. It’s often difficult to prove personal injury liability on your own.
• Lawyers know filing a lawsuit means sticking to the rules. If you decide to sue, you’re going to need to file the appropriate papers in court. On the surface, this might not sound like a big deal. Not so fast! Complex rules are in place for these papers, including everything from the correct font size of the brief to what evidence is admissible. An experienced lawyer is the best person to navigate you through the legal maze.
• Lawyers understand your settlement options. The defendant or his/her insurance company is likely to make you an offer so you can all avoid a court proceeding, but you need to understand the consequences of accepting this offer. Once you accept, you give up your right to sue. Your lawyer will help you understand the impact and evaluate whether settling is the best option for your case.

You’re never alone when you seek the assistance of a lawyer

Were you recently in a car accident? It’s one thing when an accident ruins your bumper; it’s another thing when there are injuries. If you are hurt and focused on your rehabilitation, you might not be thinking about hiring a lawyer, but there are many reasons to do just that. Don’t go it alone. Give us a call and let us navigate the law together.