When to Call a Car Accident Attorney
Most people ask themselves whether they should contact an attorney after a car accident. The answer to this question is not easy, because it depends on what exactly happened, who was injured and how severe that was. Generally speaking, if you or people you care about have been injured in a car accident, see an attorney about representing you in a claim against the person who has been responsible for your temporary or permanent injuries. On the other hand, a simple car accident where nobody involved becomes hurt can be properly handled through insurance companies. To help you make the right decision, we’ve asked an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney to give us her opinion on when you should definitely go to an attorney.
If you want the peace of mind that everything will be appropriately handled, it would be wise to contact an attorney who’s dealing with personal injuries (especially if they are specialized in car accidents). Right now, I’ll list situations where it’s necessary to go to your attorney and when it’s optional, yet highly recommended.
It’s necessary to call an attorney when:
- injuries are serious (hospitalization, broken bones etc.) or even permanent (paralysis).
- someone’s dead as a result of an accident.
- pedestrians, cars and other parties are involved.
- a car accidents happens in a construction area.
- according to the police report (which doesn’t describe the accident accurately), you’re at fault.
- crucial medical, legal or technical issues are involved.
- your liability insurance has low limits.
- your insurer calls their own attorney.
- your insurance company says you didn’t pay your premium or you actually don’t have insurance.
It would be wise to call an attorney when:
- you want to seek an advice on the settlement value of a claim.
- you’re unsure whether other insurances might be available.
- fault might be an issue.
- you think your insurer isn’t looking out for your best interests.
- you don’t know how to negotiate with your insurance company.
- you’re confused about the terms of your insurance policy.
- you’re not sure of your rights.
- you need an expert to review forms and paperwork.
