It’s always the first question that comes to mind: Do I need a lawyer for my car accident? Let’s start by stating this: Not hiring an accident lawyer could mean the difference between getting paid a meager amount or nothing at all and getting awarded a fair settlement that takes care of your situation.
Starting this year, the minimum insurance bodily injury coverage in California has increased to a minimum of $30,000 per individual and $60,000 per accident. If an accident involves company vehicles, commercial vehicles, umbrella policies, or those with high insurance limits, it could be a multi-million-dollar insurance claim. The victim can get maximum payment with the help of a personal injury lawyer.
But is that all? There is more to hiring a professional after an accident.
Reasons You Should Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident
Often, people neglect to hire a lawyer after an accident because they either find it minor or the injuries are not immediately obvious. Soft tissue damage, whiplash, or mild traumatic brain injuries may take weeks to show full symptoms, and by then, it may be too late to connect them to the incident. This is where an experienced lawyer comes in.
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Cost of an Ordinary Crash
No injury is too small to neglect. Clients often ask if their case is too small. The answer is no. Any injury you sustain from an accident where you were not at fault entitles you to compensation for your problems.
At A1 Accident Lawyer, we understand that every case is unique. A minor back pain could get you a hundred thousand dollars. Even for a minor injury, hiring a car accident attorney Orange County could prove highly beneficial to you. What’s more, you don’t have to pay anything unless your claim is settled.
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A Lawsuit Threat Gets You Paid More
The insurance companies are hardwired to reduce the settlement amount or pay nothing at all, if possible. They will blame you for the accident, saying you were following too closely or changing lanes illegally or that you could have taken steps to avoid the accident. When you have a lawyer with you, the threat of a lawsuit will keep them from making such claims when you weren’t at fault.
It also streamlines negotiation and prevents lowball offers. There have been various instances with our clients where we found out the insurance company was not proceeding with the settlement until we sent them a letter of representation, making them pay their maximum policy limits.
When to Call a Lawyer
You should call a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident—ideally before you speak to the insurance adjusters. The earlier your lawyer gets involved, the better they can protect your rights, preserve evidence, and start building a strong case.
Here are clear signs you should consult a lawyer:
- You have any injuries, no matter how small.
- The insurance company is delaying or denying your claim.
- The other driver is blaming you.
- There are multiple parties involved.
- You’re facing medical bills, lost income, or pain and suffering.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is this: You don’t need to go through this alone. Whether your accident was minor or severe, having legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and that you’re not taken advantage of by powerful insurance companies. At A1 Accident Lawyer, we don’t charge you unless we win your case.
Call us today for a free consultation and find out how much your case could really be worth. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.
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