After a car accident, many people try to handle their insurance claims without the help of an attorney. While you may not require legal representation for very minor crashes, cases involving injuries or property damage often require additional assistance. In these situations, a car accident lawyer can provide significant benefits for your case.
#1: Dealing with Insurance Companies
Most car accident claims begin in the insurance stage. When dealing with an insurance company, it is important to act carefully. Insurance companies are responsible for paying for your damages and it is not in the company’s best interest to provide maximum compensation. As a result, you may receive insufficient settlement offers or the company could refuse to settle.
In these situations, you need an advocate on your side. Our car accident attorneys in McAllen, TX have significant experience negotiating with insurance adjusters, advocating for our clients’ best interests during each stage of the process. Your attorney will handle each aspect of your claim and advise you on how to proceed, helping you avoid mistakes that could decrease your award value.
#2: Calculating Optimal Compensation
After a car accident, it can be difficult to fully understand the compensation you qualify for. You may not know the full extent of your injuries and the medical care you require in the future. Pain and suffering damages, such as emotional distress and chronic pain, are intangible and can be difficult to calculate. However, if you cannot calculate the full value of your award, you can inadvertently accept a lower settlement than you deserve.
Your attorney will understand how to calculate your maximum compensation. He or she will enlist the help of expert witnesses, such as medical professionals and life care planners, that can calculate the cost of your future medical care. Your lawyer will also know formulas to calculate your pain and suffering damages. Finally, your attorney can evaluate any offers you receive from the insurance company, helping you avoid an insufficient settlement.
#3: Proving Liability
As part of your car accident claim, you will need to prove that the at-fault party caused your accident and resulting injuries. While this may seem straightforward, proving liability is one of the most difficult parts of a car accident claim. If it is unclear who caused the accident, the insurance company may deny your claim altogether.
An attorney will conduct an in-depth investigation into your accident. He or she will gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and craft a compelling case for your right to compensation. If the at-fault party claims that you caused the collision, your attorney will defend you against the accusations and enlist the help of expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists, to disprove these claims.
#4: Understanding the Legal Process
After a recent injury, navigating a car accident claim can feel overwhelming. You may be unfamiliar with the steps you need to take to secure compensation, leading to potential delays and lengthening your claim’s timeline. Additionally, errors can delay your claim and prevent you from recovering a settlement at all.
Your car accident attorney will have handled dozens, if not hundreds, of cases similar to your own. He or she will understand the legal process and advise you on your best course of action. Your lawyer will handle all aspects of your claim on your behalf, allowing you to focus on recovery.
If you are in a car accident in Texas, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney will evaluate your case and advise you on your optimal path to maximum compensation.
