An auto accident, regardless of how big or small can be a traumatic experience. From the moment a driver and his or her passengers realize that a collision is coming, they begin to brace themselves for the impact. Once everyone’s safety has been established, many people find themselves wondering if they need to contact an Auto Accident Lawyer. While each case is different, there are certain circumstances that suggest contacting a lawyer might be a good idea.
Liability is Unclear
Once an accident has occurred, it is important to figure out who is to blame for the collision. This isn’t always easy and if liability is not clearly defined, it helps to seek the counsel of an Auto Accident Attorney. He or she can help look at the situation and figure out if there is a case to place blame on the other driver. When fault is cloudy, insurance companies often seek to fight the claim, attempting to place the blame somewhere else and drawing out the process of settling.
Insurance Company Denial or Low Settlement
Sometimes the insurance company refuses to pay or offers a settlement that is low considering the circumstances and the damage. Most people aren’t able to negotiate a settlement for themselves. They may not be sure how much to ask for or know what to do if the insurance company continues to refuse payment. In these situations, an attorney can be a huge help in communicating with the insurance company and working out a settlement. Attorneys can also help victims obtain a settlement that is more accurate to their losses than originally offered.
Extenuating Circumstances
There are times when a collision is simple. One person is at fault. Both were injured. Property was damaged. But sometimes, things can get complicated. What if one driver is missing work and losing out on income because of his or her injuries? What if a child was one of the people in the vehicle with injuries that could jeopardize his or her future potential? Because of the complexity of the situation, it is important to hand it over to a lawyer that understands the local laws and can work to prove that there could be more damage to the victims than meets the eye.
