When Do You Need to Hire an Accident Lawyer?
Introduction
When someone badly injures you in an accident, you may be wondering if you need to hire a lawyer. In this blog, we will use two real case stories to show you when you need to hire an accident lawyer and when you don’t. It’s crucial to know this because making the wrong decision could have serious financial consequences. Hiring a personal injury lawyer when you don’t need one could be the biggest financial mistake of your life. On the other hand, not hiring a lawyer when you should could lead to your financial ruin. The internet is filled with comments of people who regret not hiring a lawyer after their accident.
Frank’s Case
Let’s start by looking at Frank’s case. Frank was recovering from a leg surgery when he slipped and fell in a store in Florida. Although this is a slip and fall case, the lesson applies to car accident cases and all types of personal injury cases. As a result of his fall, his leg pain was so bad that he couldn’t get up off the floor. Paramedics rushed him in an ambulance to the hospital, where he received some bad news. The doctor told him that he would need a skin graft and months of wound care. This meant that he was more likely to have to sue.
This is the first situation where you’re better off hiring a lawyer. It’s whether you’ll likely need to sue to get money for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. You won’t have to sue in every case, but in many cases, you will. And if you’re likely to sue, you’ll be much better off with a lawyer. There are two reasons for this.
Reason 1: Lack of Legal Knowledge
Firstly, most accident victims have no idea how to sue. Courts aren’t set up to make it easy for you to sue. You have to file detailed documents, or the judge will dismiss your case. Calling the courthouse for help won’t be of much use either. You’re likely to be put on eternal hold, and even if you do speak with court staff, they can’t give you legal advice. Suing for personal injury is complicated, and it’s best to have a lawyer who understands the process.
However, I want to give you a word of caution. Don’t automatically assume that your injury is small. Even if you have a minor injury and don’t need much medical treatment, you may still need to hire a lawyer. In one case, I represented a client who broke his knee and had surgery after being hit by a truck. Initially, the doctor’s assistant didn’t think the injury was permanent. However, I ended up settling my client’s case for over $425,000.
Reason 2: Maximizing Your Settlement
The second reason you should consider hiring a lawyer is to maximize your settlement. When you have a personal injury claim, you need to quickly preserve evidence to prove your case. Sometimes, one piece of evidence can make a significant difference in the outcome. The insurance company for the at-fault party knows what you need to preserve, but they won’t tell you. They don’t want to owe you more money. If you don’t request and preserve evidence, it could vanish forever, and you’ll lose your case.
The Case of Madeline
To further illustrate this point, let’s look at Madeline’s case. Madeline tripped over something in the grass while carrying tiles from her trunk to the back seat of her car. She fell to the ground and experienced intense pain. Paramedics rushed her to the hospital, where doctors discovered she had broken two bones in her ankle and would need surgery.
Madeline needed to request and preserve two pieces of evidence to prove her case. The first piece was the 911 call recording. Some 911 call centers permanently delete the recordings, so it’s important to request it quickly. Madeline hired a lawyer who promptly requested the recording. In the call, Madeline mentioned that something was wrong with the property that caused her to fall. This recording helped her prove her case and gave more credibility to her statement.
The second piece of evidence Madeline needed to request was the object she tripped on. She also had to send a letter to the property owner asking them to preserve the area and the irrigation control valve or its cap that she tripped on. By quickly sending these requests, she was able to strengthen her case.
If you knew to quickly send a request to preserve those two pieces of evidence, you’re less likely to need a lawyer. However, if you didn’t, it’s advisable to speak with a lawyer for your case. Asking the right questions before hiring a lawyer can save you money and reduce your stress.
Conclusion
Knowing when to hire an accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. If you’re likely to sue to obtain compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, it’s best to have a lawyer by your side. They can navigate the complex legal process and ensure you have the necessary evidence to support your claim. Additionally, hiring a lawyer early on can help maximize your settlement and prevent crucial evidence from being lost. So, if you’ve been seriously injured in Florida or on a cruise and believe someone else may be at fault, consult with a lawyer to determine the best course of action.
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FAQ
Why should I hire an accident lawyer?
- Hiring an accident lawyer ensures you have an expert advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
When should I hire an accident lawyer?
- It’s best to hire an accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident to ensure critical evidence is preserved and your rights are protected from the outset.
What does an accident lawyer do?
- An accident lawyer investigates the accident, negotiates with insurance companies, gathers evidence, builds a strong case, and represents you in legal proceedings if necessary, all with the goal of maximizing your compensation.
How do I find the right accident lawyer for my case?
- Research potential lawyers, consider their experience, track record, and client reviews. Schedule consultations to discuss your case and determine if the lawyer is the right fit for you.
What if I can’t afford an accident lawyer?
- Many accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Additionally, some offer free initial consultations, allowing you to discuss your case without financial obligation.