America is always on the move. At any given time, there are millions of motorists going on about their errands. Inevitably, this means car accidents are the order of the day.
In Florida alone, there are about 350,000 car crashes every year. If you’ve become one of the unfortunate victims of a car accident, it’s important to act quickly. Knowing when to call a lawyer after a car accident is particularly crucial.
Continue reading to know the telltale signs it’s time to lawyer up.
You’re at fault for a Car Accident
You should never admit liability at the scene of the accident. That’s because, besides the burden of liability, sometimes it’s difficult to know who was at fault in a multi-car crash.
However, there are instances when you’ll clearly know you’re at fault, such as when you ram into another car’s rear at a traffic light stop. While you must keep your mouth shut (don’t apologize), you should start thinking of finding a car accident attorney.
When you’re at fault in an accident, and you live in an at-fault state, don’t expect any leniency. The other party and their lawyers will come at you with full force, looking to extract as much as possible from your liability insurance provider. If you’re underinsured, they can sue you individually to recoup their losses.
A Life Was Lost in the Accident
You might have made it out of the accident alive, but what if you were riding with a loved one who wasn’t as lucky as you?
When there’s a fatality in an accident, and another party is at fault, they could be liable for a wrongful death. Justice must be sought for your deceased loved one, and that begins with hiring a lawyer.
This wrongful death attorney in Miami notes that in Florida, any personal representative of the deceased can pursue a wrongful death settlement with the party that caused the accident. They can sue for compensation for medical expenses paid by the deceased’s family, loss of companionship, emotional pain and suffering, and loss of economic support that was provided by the deceased.
Your Insurance Company Is Playing Hardball
Ordinarily, the at-fault party’s insurance provider will compensate the victims of an accident. What if you’re in a no-fault state, though?
Your personal injury protection insurance provider is supposed to compensate you, and the process of filing a claim is similar to that of filing a car accident claim with an at-fault party’s insurer.
However, it’s possible that your insurance company can turn the tables on you. Perhaps it believes you’re claiming far too much money that you deserve.
At the slightest hint of your insurer playing hardball, seek professional legal services. An attorney will see to it that you get a fair settlement.
Know When to Call a Lawyer After a Car Accident
Not every car accident requires you to get legal help. Some minor incidents like fender benders can be resolved amicably without involving any attorney. This is why knowing when to call a lawyer after a car accident is essential.
Now that you know when to make the call, check out our other insightful blog posts to learn new things!