Should I Get A Lawyer For A Car Accident That Wasn't My Fault

When you are involved in a car accident, seeking legal representation is crucial and is even more vital when the car crash is not your fault.

We say this because the maze of paperwork, negotiations, and legal battles can potentially block your path to total financial compensation to you as a victim of a car accident.

In this article, we will delve into why having legal representation is paramount, even if you are not at fault for the car accident.

Why And When To Hire A Lawyer

In any car crash, hiring a car accident will involve careful consideration and planning. The decision you make will change the final settlement you receive.

In hopes you make the right decision, we provide a list of key considerations you should understand when deciding whether to hire a lawyer.

Factors To Consider When Deciding If You Should Hire A Lawyer For A Car Accident

• Extent Of Injuries Sustained - If you suffered serious injuries in a car accident, hiring a car accident lawyer is recommended to compensate you for current and long-term care.

• Possibility Of Disputed Liability - Even if you are 100% sure that the other driver is at fault for the accident, there's a chance that the opposing side will dispute liability, and in that case, having an attorney on your side is vital for building a case that establishes the other driver's negligence.

• The Complex Legal Process - Car accidents can often be complex with the mass of paperwork, negotiations, and litigation. Trying to handle this all yourself could result in a weak case or even legal troubles.

• Insurance Company Challenges - Whether it's your insurance provider or the other driver's insurance company, you will encounter resistance when pursuing compensation. Having a lawyer on your side will prevent your rights from being violated and ensure all insurance negotiations go your way.

Why It's Important To Hire A Car Accident Lawyer When The Accident Wasn't Your Fault

Hiring a car accident lawyer becomes even more significant when you're not at fault for an accident for the following reasons:

• Establishing Negligence - You must still prove the other driver caused the accident. This will require evidence, witness statements, and a review of the accident scene to build a compelling case. Having a lawyer will ensure a smoother, faster case development process.

• Maximizing Compensation - You have the right to pursue compensation; however, that doesn't mean you'll receive fair compensation. This is the case because insurance companies will actively try to minimize payouts, but with a lawyer, you can ensure that all relevant damages are considered.

Deadlines For Legal Action

Take your time deciding whether to get a lawyer; however, don't wait too long to make a decision; as in car accidents, timeliness is crucial to getting the best-case outcome. This is the case due to the following aspects:

• Statute Of Limitations - The statute of limitations in Nevada for a personal injury claim is two years. This means legal actions must be taken within that two-year time frame, and anything outside of it can result in losing the right to pursue compensation.

• Prompt Action - Filing an insurance claim and starting your case with a lawyer will increase the final compensation you can receive. Immediate action will also ensure eyewitnesses remember more, strengthen evidence, and smooth the claims process.

Benefits Of Hiring A Car Accident Lawyer

Hiring a car accident attorney will bring legal expertise and knowledge to ensure a fair settlement.

From negotiation skills to knowledge of insurance laws, here are a few key benefits to hiring a car accident lawyer.

Advanced Legal Knowledge

Auto accident attorneys can bring various bits of legal expertise to your car accident case, some being:

• Understanding of State Laws - Personal injury lawyers will be well versed in their practicing state's law. This knowledge will become essential when dealing with intermediate and above car accident cases.

• Case Experience - For most car accident lawyers, when you hire them, it will not be their first rodeo. They will usually be equipped with past case experience and can draw on strategies that helped past clients for your case.

• Knowledge of Personal Injury Claim Process - For a car accident victim who has never been through the claims process, filing a car accident claim can be daunting. However, car accident lawyers will understand the claims process like the back of their hand, providing a smoother experience for the victim.

Negotiation Skills

Another critical ability a car accident lawyer will bring to your case is negotiating on your behalf with the insurance company and other parties.

Having a personal injury lawyer negotiate on your behalf gives you and your case benefits such as:

• Protection Against An Undervalued Settlement Offer - Insurance companies rarely give a fair settlement amount as their first offer and hope the victim takes it, not seeing the undervaluation. However, a car accident lawyer helps prevent this by taking into account all damages, present and future, to ensure that the insurance company gives a fair offer that can compensate their client.

• Effective Communication With Insurance Adjusters - When in talks with an insurance adjuster, a car accident lawyer can effectively convey details on your sustained injuries and damages, making it harder for the insurance company not to provide fair compensation.

• Negotiate Complex Legal Issues - In a complex legal process, there may be a need to prove negligence, fight against disputes when determining liability, and even work with accident reconstruction specialists. A situation like that could quickly get out of hand and become unmanageable for non-lawyers.

Key In Building A Strong Car Accident Case

A car accident lawyer will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in constructing a robust case that will result in you receiving maximum compensation. When you get a lawyer, they can do the following:

• Gather Evidence - A car accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your case and gather evidence such as police reports, medical bills, and proof of lost wages to form a complete settlement.

• Advanced Legal Strategy - An experienced attorney can develop a strategic plan tailored to your situation to ensure you receive fair compensation.

• Legal Connections - A seasoned car accident lawyer will have connections to accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals that can be used in your case to provide valuable insight into your damages.

Importance Of Seeking Medical Attention After A Car Accident

Seeking medical attention should be your top priority after a car accident. This is vital for addressing any unnoticed or internal injuries that may have resulted from the accident.

In addition, when you seek medical attention, you build a connection between your injuries and the auto accident, preventing legal complications.

How Medical Records Impact Insurance Claims

• Concrete Evidence - Medical records given to you by a medical professional will serve as undeniable evidence that you suffered injuries because of the accident. These records will prevent the insurance company from using the pre-existing injury card.

• Determining Compensation - Medical records will outline the amount of medical bills and the extent of injuries you received due to the accident. This information will be taken into account when determining your final settlement amount.

• Disputing Insurance Adjuster Assessments - An insurance adjuster will often question the injured party on the severity of their injuries in hopes of minimizing the insurance claim payout; however, medical documentation can counter any claim an insurance adjuster may have.

The Role Of a Personal Injury Lawyer In Collecting and Utilizing Medical Documentation

• Coordination With Medical Professionals - Car accident lawyers will work closely with doctors to ensure that comprehensive and accurate documentation of their client's injuries is noted. This collaboration will help build a clear connection between car accidents and injuries.

• Review Medical Records - A car accident attorney will review medical documentation, including medical bills, information on specific injuries, and possible future medical treatment that may be needed. This review will allow the attorney to make a more complete evaluation of your case.

• Presenting a Strong Case - Personal injury lawyers will use medical documents to articulate how injuries caused by the car accident affect your life, including your ability to work, enjoyment of life, and strain on personal relationships. This articulation will be vital in securing fair compensation.

Misconceptions About Hiring Personal Injury Lawyers

When wondering if you should get a lawyer, you probably have heard many misconceptions online about getting one.

These misconceptions can hurt your ability to make an informed choice, resulting in out-of-pocket costs for an accident that wasn't your fault.

In hopes you and many others can avoid making a decision based on misconceptions, we cover common myths and address them with reality.

Car Accident Lawyers Are Expensive

Misconception: Hiring a lawyer after a car accident is expensive.

Truth: Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. Which means they only get paid if you win your case.

This payment method prevents any upfront costs, making legal services more accessible.

You Don't Need A Lawyer For A Minor Accident

Misconception: A lawyer is needed only in a serious car accident.

Truth: The other driver can create legal complexities even in a minor accident. At a minimum, you should consult a lawyer.

Do It Yourself Legal Claim

Misconception: An individual can handle a legal claim without help from a legal professional.

Truth: While this may be true, a person with no legal experience can make mistakes and miss vital steps that can result in long-lasting consequences.

Long Court Battles

Misconception: When you get a lawyer, lengthy court cases will ensue, extending the time till you get compensation.

Truth: When you get a lawyer, you will most likely resolve your claim through negotiations and be rewarded an out-of-court settlement.

Guaranteed Win

Misconception: Getting an attorney will ensure a win in your case.

Truth: While a lawyer can provide favorable chances for a win in your case, it's not a guarantee.

How To Hire The Right Lawyer

After a car accident, choosing the right lawyer will be crucial in determining your settlement amount.

Before proceeding with an attorney, consider the four factors we cover below.

Specialization In Car Accidents

Ensure you look at lawyers specializing in car accidents, also called personal injury. Doing this will allow you to work with attorneys who are well-versed in the nuances of a car accident case.

Track Record

Check their past client reviews before taking a lawyer on a free consultation. In most cases, their reviews will reflect the experience you'll receive from their law firm.

Communication Methods

When consulting with a personal injury attorney, check to see if they are clear and transparent in explaining your case's path while you work with them.

Talk With A Las Vegas Personal Injury Attorney Today

The aftermath of a Las Vegas car accident can be overwhelming and seem to be an impossible hurdle to get over.

However, we understand your challenges at The Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm and hope to address them.

With over 20+ years of experience, our firm has helped countless people like you secure justice and complete compensation.

Our commitment to excellence, experience in the personal injury field, and strong track record sets us apart. By choosing our firm, you will gain a legal team that has been battle-tested and will advocate for your rights till the end.

Schedule a free consultation with us today by calling (702) 566-3600.