When Should You Get a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
Car accidents are a common occurrence in Ontario, Canada. While some may result in nothing more than a fender bender, others can cause severe injuries that can have long-term consequences. Victims of car accidents may suffer physically, emotionally, and financially, with medical expenses, lost income, and even permanent disability.
If you’ve been in a car accident, you may be wondering if you should get a lawyer. In this blog, we’ll discuss when you should consider calling a lawyer, the benefits of working with a car accident lawyer, the risks of not working with a car accident lawyer, and instructions for what to do after an accident.
A skilled lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal and insurance claim process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
When to Consider Calling a Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Ontario, you should definitely get a lawyer after a car accident if you or another party has sustained a personal injury. If you’ve sustained serious injuries that require medical attention, it’s important to seek legal help. Personal injury lawyers specialize in helping those who have been injured in car accidents and can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Another circumstance under which you should get a lawyer after a car accident is if there’s a dispute over who’s at fault. This is common when multiple parties are involved in the accident or if there are different accounts of what happened. In these cases, the insurance company may deny your claim or offer a smaller settlement than you are entitled to. A car accident lawyer can help you negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company or your own insurance company to get you the compensation you deserve.
You should also get a lawyer after a car accident if there’s significant property damage or loss. This can include a total loss of a vehicle, expensive repairs required, or the loss of personal belongings. A personal injury lawyer can help you recover damages for the cost of repairs or replacement of your vehicle, as well as any other damages you’ve suffered.
The Benefits of Working With Car Accident Lawyers
One of the primary benefits of hiring a car accident lawyer is their ability to negotiate the best possible settlement with the insurance company. Insurance companies often prioritize their own interests, which can result in lowball settlement offers that don’t fully compensate you for your damages. A lawyer can assess the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and work to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Another benefit of working with a car accident lawyer is their ability to assist you in filing an accident benefits claim. Accident benefits are available to those who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and can include income replacement benefits, caregiver benefits, and medical and rehabilitation benefits. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of filing motor vehicle claims, ensure that you’re getting all of the benefits you’re entitled to, and advocate for your rights if your claim is denied.
Finally, if your case goes to court, a car accident lawyer can provide representation and fight for your rights. This can be especially important if there’s a dispute over who’s at fault or if you’ve sustained significant damages that haven’t been fully compensated.
With a lawyer on your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have someone advocating for your best interests and working to secure the compensation you deserve. For these various reasons, working with a car accident lawyer can provide significant benefits and help you get back on your feet after a car accident.
The Risks of Not Working with a Car Accident Lawyer
If you choose not to work with a car accident lawyer after being involved in an accident, you may be putting yourself at risk of getting a lower settlement than what you’re entitled to. Without the assistance of a lawyer, you may not realize the different insurance benefits that are available to you or the true value of your case, which can affect negotiations with insurance companies.
If your case goes to court, you may also struggle to navigate the legal system and present a compelling case without the expertise and resources of a car accident lawyer, which could result in a significant loss. By working with a car accident lawyer, you can ensure that your best interests are represented and increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement for a personal injury claim.
What to Do After an Car Accident
Here is a quick step-by-step guide detailing the procedure you should follow after a motor vehicle collision to ensure your safety both physically and legally.
- Check for injuries: Assess whether you or your passengers have sustained injuries. If someone is injured, call 911 right away.
- Document the accident: Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles, skid marks, and any other relevant details.
- Exchange information: Trade contact and insurance details with the other driver.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to seek medical attention to ensure that you don’t have any hidden injuries. Sometimes people feel the shock and adrenaline of the accident and their symptoms appear several hours after the accident.
- Report the accident: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Consult with a lawyer: If you’ve been injured in the accident, believe that the accident was the result of the actions of a negligent driver, or are having trouble with your insurance claim, consult with an auto accident attorney.
McNally Gervan – Our Experience Car Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help
If you believe you have a car accident claim on your hands, don’t hesitate to contact the experienced car accident lawyers at McNally Gervan. We have a proven track record of successful personal injury cases, and our team of experts will work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you get back on your feet.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.
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