At some point in our life, most of us will likely be in some kind of car accident. However, many of us don’t know when we need to contact a lawyer. In minor appearing collisions to those involving significant property damage, serious injury can result. So, be prepared by following these basic guidelines.
When you do get in an accident, be sure to get a copy of the police report, contact your insurance company, and get your claim number from the company. Your agent will advise you on next steps, but be sure to take notes with all parties you speak with, including agents, doctors, and investigators. If you are not injured, do not require any medical care after a proper medical evaluation and the police report clearly states who is at fault for the accident, it is probably not necessary to contact a lawyer. However, you should always get the other drivers’ insurance information. If the other driver is at fault and you suffered property damage or injury, you may wish to contact that company immediately to alert them to your claim.
You will want to consider hiring an attorney if you are injured, have significant medical bills or may not be able to get back to work for some time. An attorney represents your interests and is recommended if you require long-term care because of your injuries. You may also want to consult with an attorney if the police report does not clearly state which driver is at fault.
If you decide to hire a lawyer, be sure to do some research and select an attorney who communicates well and who has a successful record of accomplishment. Talk to your friends and family; trusted referrals are excellent ways to identify potential lawyers. Be wary of lawyers who are pushy or who make you feel uncomfortable. You are hiring them, so be sure to trust your instincts.
Accidents happen and no one wants to suffer unnecessarily. Be prepared in case you have a collision. Knowing when to hire an attorney can save you money and help get you back on the road to recovery quickly.
Source: General Insurance Services
