The time following your involvement in a car accident can be stressful and challenging for a number of reasons. From handling insurance claims to recovering from injuries, there is a lot to manage following a car accident. Even seemingly minor car accidents can disrupt your daily life.
Despite this, some people choose to “go it alone” after a car accident, handling all correspondence with insurance companies and healthcare providers, claims, settlements and recovery efforts on their own. While this is the right choice for some, it can also make recovering from a car accident even more difficult.
Should You Hire a Personal Injury Attorney After a Car Accident?
Wondering if you should hire a personal injury attorney after a car accident? Here are a few things to consider:
If you are unfortunately involved in an auto accident, it is quite likely that you will promptly be called by the other driver’s insurance company. That is not unusual, and you should not assume that the insurance company has some improper motive. The other driver’s carrier is certainly entitled to learn information about how the accident occurred and whether you sustained any injuries of significance.
If you choose to speak with them, you should be extremely cautious in what you say, as any statement or admission could potentially be used against you at some later stage if litigation should occur. If a personal injury case does occur, keep in mind that when it comes time for settlement discussions, you will need to make a critical decision: Should you hire a personal injury attorney to represent your rights, or can you “go it alone”?
Many claimants have concerns with hiring an attorney: they don’t know and trust that attorney, they’re concerned that it will lead to litigation, and they don’t want to share any recovery with an attorney. While those concerns are certainly valid, there are a number of reasons why hiring a personal injury lawyer to represent you after a car accident is often a good idea:
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
First and foremost, you should be aware of “traps” that may befall the unwary litigant. There are certain contractual and statutory deadlines that must be adhered to. A failure to promptly take required steps can preclude you from recovering later. Your attorney is aware of those deadlines and can promptly take steps to preserve your rights to pursue a fair recovery later.
Second, personal injury attorneys experienced in car crash cases are aware of the unique legal requirements and case law regarding automobile litigation. When engaging in discussions with a carrier, an attorney can “talk the talk” and advise carriers why their arguments and defenses may not apply.
Third, an attorney familiar with auto accident litigation can counsel you as to what you need to do to best validate your claim, by providing you with advice regarding appropriate documentation and investigation, recommended medical treatment, etc.
Finally, and perhaps most significantly, a carrier may simply take your claim more seriously if you are represented by counsel. Individuals representing themselves often lose objectivity and the ability to fairly negotiate their own claims. Firms such as Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto have a great deal of experience in negotiating personal injury claims, are well-known to carriers, and in some instances, have already developed a strong rapport with the insurance adjusters. Carriers also respect the reputation of litigation firms and appreciate that the actual threat of litigation may ultimately result in more cost to them. As a result, they are often more willing to resolve claims at an earlier stage.
The Choice to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
Ultimately, the decision as to whether to retain an attorney is yours, and yours alone. However, even the most minor impact can lead to “soft tissue” injuries that worsen with time. It is usually in your best interest to at least consult with an attorney before you consider resolving a claim.
If you are considering personal injury attorneys in Albany, Saugerties or Johnstown, or the surrounding areas in New York State, contact the experienced car accident lawyers at Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto. Our team of attorneys has extensive legal knowledge and a history of success. We will give you and your case compassionate care and attention every step of the way.
We have obtained impressive results for past clients and we will work hard to assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Find out what sets us apart from other New York personal injury lawyers. Give us a call today at 800-721-3553 or contact us online for a FREE case review.
