According to data compiled by the Indiana University Public Policy Institute, there were 216,312 traffic accidents in Indiana during 2015. Involvement in a serious car wreck is not something anyone expects, and many people are unsure about how to begin putting their lives back together in the days and weeks following the accident. Between dealing with doctors, insurance companies, and your work, the aftermath of an accident can be stressful, time-consuming, and confusing.
Yes! Always Speak with an Attorney as Soon as Possible
One of the questions that you may be pondering is whether you need to talk to a lawyer after an accident. While many questions regarding the law are difficult to answer, this not one of them—accident victims should always speak to an attorney as soon as possible. Some of the specific ways in which a lawyer can help accident victims include the following:
- A Lawyer Can Determine Whether You Have a Case – Not every motor vehicle accident entitles victims to compensation for their losses. When you meet with an attorney, he or she will go over the way your accident occurred in detail and determine whether you have an actionable claim.
- An Attorney Will Determine How Much Your Case May Be Worth – One of the most important ways in which a lawyer can protect your rights after an accident is by determining how much compensation you should expect to receive. The fact is, most car accident claims are resolved through a settlement, and not knowing how much your case is worth could result in you accepting a settlement offer that is far too low and has no further recourse.
- Your Lawyer Will Talk to the Insurance Company for You – Insurance company adjusters often engage in high-pressure tactics that are meant to get injured victims to accidentally admit that they were at fault for the accident. When you retain an attorney, he or she will handle all communication with the insurance company for you, ensuring that you do not say or do anything that can hurt your chances of recovering compensation.
- An Attorney Will try and Negotiate a Settlement – Reaching a settlement often involves significant negotiation that is supported by the presentation of evidence of damages. An attorney familiar with the car accident claims process will know what evidence to gather and how to get the insurance company to maximize their settlement offer.
If your lawyer cannot reach an adequate settlement with the insurance company representing the other driver, he or she may file a lawsuit in court to ensure that you get the compensation to which you are entitled under Indiana law.
Call Bill Hurst Today to Speak with an Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been hurt in a car accident in the Indianapolis area, you should speak to an attorney as soon as you can. To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, call our office today at 317-636-0808 or send us an email through our online contact form.