44,000 people died in road accidents during 2023, which is less than 2022, but 13.6% higher than before the pandemic. There’s a lot to deal with after a car accident. You may have injuries that need treatment or vehicle damage that needs repairing. On top of that, you have to deal with insurance companies and claims processes.
Car accident attorney Drew Barnett, founder of Belt, Bruner & Barnett, P.C. at Birmingham, AL, shares the benefits of hiring legal representation after a crash and the reasons not to handle it alone:
Expert Negotiation
One of the top benefits of hiring an attorney is that they are experts at negotiation and dealing with insurance companies. An experienced attorney will know how to maximize the compensation you receive for injuries, vehicle damage, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident. They understand state laws and insurance company tactics. The average settlement for a car accident is $20,235, but an attorney can often negotiate a much higher settlement than an individual could on their own. This alone often more than covers their fees.
Help Determining Fault
After an accident, it must be determined who was at fault and to what degree. There are often complicated factors and evidence to examine. A car accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, including gathering police reports, interviewing witnesses, photographing the scene and vehicles, consulting experts, and more. They can then build a strong case regarding fault and use this to negotiate with insurance adjusters.
Guide You Through Legal Processes
The claims process after an accident can be confusing, with lots of paperwork and deadlines. The statute of limitations on car accidents can be anything from one year to four years. An attorney helps guide you through legal processes, making sure important documents are filled out properly and deadlines met. This prevents any delay in getting your claim paid. They also know what documents and records you need to keep. The right attorney does all the legwork for you.
Deal Directly with Insurance Companies
One of the biggest benefits of hiring an attorney is that they become your advocate and handle communications with insurance companies. Adjusters know attorneys have legal expertise, so they are less likely to try underhanded tactics. The attorney deals with unreasonable demands or lowball offers. This also means the injured party doesn’t have to go through the stress of arguing over settlements themselves.
Examine Medical Bills and Records
Medical treatment and billing can be complex after an accident. An attorney will examine your medical bills and records to check for any unnecessary treatments or excessive charges – the cost of an ambulance ride to the ER can be as much as $900, and hospitalization fees can easily run to $5,000+. They can then negotiate these down with health care providers. Attorneys also know how to document medical expenses and treatment to strengthen your claims.
Help with Litigation
Around 95% of accident cases settle out of court, but an attorney can file motions, conduct discovery, and take a case to trial if needed. Their litigation experience is invaluable in these instances. Even just the threat of litigation often compels insurance companies to offer a more equitable settlement.
With so many benefits, hiring an attorney is highly recommended to protect your rights and get the settlement you deserve.
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This post brought to you by Kristina Rodopska
Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay
