There’s no denying that a whirlwind of activity usually follows a car accident. For starters, you have to deal with the police and insurance companies. You might also have to get your car repaired or even replaced. And that’s not all.
A long recovery time may also be inevitable if you were injured in an accident. All the while, you’re probably juggling work and family obligations. That said, a Cruise Ship Accident Attorney may also come in handy if you’re injured due to someone’s negligence.
All the same, it’s no wonder many people feel swamped after an accident. And when it comes time to file an insurance claim, they often don’t know where to turn or what to do. This is where an experienced car accident attorney can help. If you’re planning to file an accident claim, here are ways an attorney can assist you:
a. Investigating the Accident
A knowledgeable attorney can help prove the other driver’s fault by thoroughly investigating the accident and gathering evidence. In so doing, they can support your claim by establishing liability.
Accidents occur due to various reasons, and the contributing factors aren’t always apparent. An attorney can investigate the accident to identify all the possible causes. For example, they might examine the police report, photographs of the scene, and witness statements. They could also talk to the emergency personnel to get more information.
Furthermore, an attorney can look into the other driver’s history. This might include their driving record, employment history, and social media posts. They can use this information to build a strong case on your behalf.
Similarly, they might also hire an accident reconstruction specialist. Such a professional can help determine the cause of the accident and the at-fault party.
And remember, it’s your responsibility to prove the other driver was at fault. Plus, given they might also have legal representation, the onus is upon your lawyer to build a water-tight case.
b. Dealing with the Insurance Company
Insurers are in the business of making money – an indisputable fact. As such, they’re often reluctant to pay out claims, even when they’re valid. And if you or someone you know has filed a claim before, you might have an idea just how grueling the process can be: the back and forth, the delays, and being offered a lowball settlement – the whole ordeal can be frustrating.
The hassle of working with an insurance company can push you over the edge when you’re already dealing with so much following an accident. But if you have an attorney on your side, you won’t have to go through it alone.
Your attorney will deal with the insurance company on your behalf. This includes negotiation and, if necessary, filing a lawsuit. And because they’re experienced in these matters, they’ll know how to get you the best possible settlement.
Besides, insurers typically have a legal team and adjusters working on their behalf. So, would it make sense to try to go up against them on your own? Ideally, it’s only logical to have your legal representation – to even the playing field.
c. Calculating Your Damages
Determining the value of a claim isn’t always straightforward. Besides, there’s no surefire way to calculate the amount.
Thankfully, an experienced attorney will have a good idea of how to go about it. They can evaluate your economic and non-economic damages and put a monetary value on them. This will give you a better idea of what to expect from your claim. As such, your car accident settlement may include the following damages:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages – if you had to miss work due to your injuries.
- Property damage – to repair or replace your damaged vehicle.
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
d. Preparing Your Case for Trial
Rts, the insurer may refuse to budge. If this happens, you may consider filing a l
You probably expect to resolve matters with the insurer. But sometimes, they have other ideas, and despite your attorney’s best effoawsuit and taking your case to trial.
If you decide to take this route, your attorney can help you navigate the entire process. They’ll help you prepare your case by:
- Gathering evidence
- Interviewing witnesses
- Building a solid legal argument
- Formulating a trial strategy
- Defending you in court
Sure, the thought of going to trial might be scary. But if it’s the only way to get the insurer to take your claim seriously and pay you what you deserve, it might be your best option. That said, trying a case can be complicated and stressful. Thankfully, with an attorney by your side, they can handle the legal matters as you focus on healing from your injuries.
e. Protecting Your Rights and Best Interests
Car accidents are unfortunate and often unexpected events. Plus, they can be physically and mentally draining. An attorney worth their salt can help you with every aspect of your case and protect your rights and best interests at all times.
And their input doesn’t just revolve around getting you a monetary settlement. In some cases, that might not even be the end goal. If, for example, the at-fault driver was operating their vehicle recklessly or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your attorney can help you file a personal injury lawsuit.
Besides, chances are that debt collectors could be breathing down your neck as well. Dealing with hospitals or such firms can be challenging enough. An attorney can help you deal with these creditors and negotiate payment terms that work for you.
The point is an attorney is an invaluable resource following a car accident. They can guide and support you through the entire process while working on getting you a favorable outcome – whether that’s through negotiation or taking your case to trial. That’s why it pays to have an attorney in your corner when filing an accident claim. After all, a good fighter should always have a supporting cast. Otherwise, you could lose the fight before you even set foot in the ring.