Committed To You - Since 1956

Do all car accident claims need a lawyer?

On Behalf of | Dec 31, 2021 | Car Accidents |

When you are in a car crash, you may not know what steps to take to protect yourself from expensive repairs or other costs.

Do you need to hire a lawyer for your accident case? The answer depends on the damages resulting from your incident.

Did you suffer a significant injury?

If you sustained severe injuries due to a collision, hiring an attorney to assist with your personal injury claim is a good idea. Some situations that may benefit from professional legal assistance include:

  • Injuries that affect your ability to work
  • Bodily damages that require ongoing, long-term medical treatment
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Wrongful death
  • Catastrophic injuries
  • Punitive damages claims

Are your injuries minor?

If you were not hurt in your motor vehicle accident or only obtained minor injuries, you likely do not need a lawyer. You can typically work directly with the insurance companies to cover your car repair expenses. You can probably even file a personal injury claim yourself for injuries that are not substantial and will heal quickly.

What should you do following your accident?

When a crash occurs, remain calm. Call the police and then check to see if anyone has injuries. Exchange your contact and insurance information with the other driver. Do not make any statements or apologies to the other party. Take photos and write down notes about what happened.

After handling the accident at the scene, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not think you have serious injuries, you should have a doctor assess you. You may want to schedule a free consultation with an attorney to ask any questions you may have.

If your case involves significant injuries, you may want to hire legal assistance. However, if your car accident was minor, you can likely handle your claim independently.