Do I Need a Car Accident Attorney?

Auto Accident Attorney

There are, on average, about 6 million car accidents every year in the United States. Roughly 3 million people report injuries from these accidents. From major multi-car collisions to routine fender benders, car accidents can take a heavy toll on their victims, both in terms of emotional stress and physical pain.

For those who experienced injuries in accidents for which they were not at fault, many decisions need to be made quickly, such as:

  • Should I seek medical treatment for my injuries?
  • If so, how will I pay for my medical bills and other costs related to the accident, including car repair bills and time away from work?
  • Will the other driver or their insurance company take responsibility and cover all my expenses?
  • Do I need to hire an attorney to make sure my rights are protected?

If you listen to the ads on television from various law firms, you might believe that insurance companies will never cover any accident victims’ expenses and will routinely mistreat them. If you listen to the insurance companies’ TV ads, you might believe that their generosity and broad coverage are limitless. In reality, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Insurance companies often do their jobs well, as do personal injury attorneys.

Are There Accidents in Which Hiring a Lawyer May Be Overkill?

Yes. Especially those in which no injuries take place and the accident’s damage is limited exclusively to the automobiles. For example, if your neighbor hits your car that’s parked along the street, it’s extremely likely that your neighbor’s insurance company will cover the damages to your vehicle.

Does That Include Accidents at Low Speeds, Where Injuries Appear to Be Minor?

Not necessarily. Unfortunately, victims of “minor” or low-speed accidents often don’t seek medical help. What they don’t realize is that many soft tissue injuries do not make themselves known until several hours or days after the accident. It’s recommended that victims visit a physician within the first 24-48 hours after a crash. In this is your situation, and you are not at fault, the other driver or their insurance company should cover your medical expenses and any follow-up treatments.

Is There Any Harm in Contacting an Attorney to Explore My Rights?

No. Nearly all personal injury attorneys will offer a free consultation in which they will review your case with you and advise whether it makes sense for you to hire an attorney.

There are many options to explore, as a lawyer, like an Auto Accident Attorney Indianapolis, IN, at a law office such as Ward & Ward Law Firm, can explain.