You should understand that the insurance company representing the person that caused your accident has a team of experienced claims representatives who handle hundreds of cases each year. You need an accident attorney with similar experience who will stand up for you.
The following questions will help you determine whether you should consider hiring a lawyer to handle your claim. If you answer “Yes” to one or more of these questions you should, at the very least, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Was your vehicle heavily damaged (>$2,500.00) or a declared a total loss?
Is there some question or argument that you may have contributed, in some part, to the accident?
Did you, as well as the person that hit you, receive a ticket for the accident?
Did you lose consciousness after the collision?
Were you taken to the hospital after your accident?
Did you suffer any broken bones, large cuts, herniated discs, or other serious injuries in the accident?
Did your injuries require an overnight hospitalization?
Did your injuries require a surgery?
Have you missed more than a few days of work since the accident?
Will you be unable to continue in the same line of work as before the accident?
Will you need ongoing medical care in the future?
Has your doctor said that you have a permanent disability because of the accident?
Are you without any insurance that will provide medical expense benefits?
Are you unsure about whether you will have to repay your health or auto insurance company for your medical expenses?
Do you not know the date by which you will have to either have your case settled or file a lawsuit?
If you can answer “No” to all of these questions, the chances are very good that you will be able to handle the claims process by yourself.