If you are reading this page and have any questions about when to contact a personal injury lawyer for either yourself or a loved one, the answer is probably right now. There’s no harm in contacting an attorney, or more than one, for a free consultation of your claim. The sooner you get an attorney involved after an incident occurs, the more likely you’ll be able to preserve the evidence surrounding the incident and recover the compensation you are entitled to.
Immediately After Medical Attention
The first thing to do after a car accident or any serious incident is to seek medical care right away, even if you feel okay at first. Your health and safety should always be the top priority. However, after you have seen a doctor and ensured that any immediate injuries are treated, contacting a personal injury attorney should be one of your next steps. This is important because the longer you wait to reach out to a lawyer, the more difficult it can be to collect evidence and prove liability for the accident.
When You Are Dealing With Insurance Companies
After an accident, insurance companies are going to start calling, whether it is your own insurer or that of the other party involved. Insurance adjusters will begin their investigation into the accident, but their goal is often to minimize payouts. This is where having a personal injury attorney can be a game-changer.
It is crucial not to give any statements to insurance adjusters before speaking to a lawyer. Anything you say could be used to devalue your claim or reduce the compensation you deserve.
When You Are Facing Medical Expenses or Lost Wages
Accidents can lead to unexpected and overwhelming medical bills. In addition to immediate care, there may be long-term rehabilitation or therapy costs to consider. If your injuries prevent you from working, you could also face a significant loss of income. When these financial burdens start to pile up, it is essential to consult your injury lawyer in LA to help determine your legal options.
An attorney can evaluate your situation and ensure that all damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and potential future medical needs, are factored into your compensation claim.
When Liability Is Disputed
Determining fault in an injury-causing incident is not always straightforward. If the other party denies responsibility or if liability is unclear, it is important to involve an attorney who can thoroughly investigate the incident. In some situations, there could be multiple parties to blame for an accident, complicating the process of seeking compensation.
A personal injury lawyer will gather evidence, review police reports, and work with experts, such as accident reconstruction personnel, to prove who was at fault.
If You Are Being Pressured to Settle Quickly
It is not uncommon for insurance companies to offer quick settlements after an accident. These initial offers typically come in lower than what you are entitled to, as the insurance company is trying to resolve the case as inexpensively as possible. While a quick payout may be tempting, especially if you are facing immediate medical bills, accepting an offer before speaking with a lawyer could mean missing out on the full compensation you deserve.
A personal injury attorney will review any offers from the claims adjusters and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
The Importance of Timing
California law sets strict time limits, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, waiting too long to take legal action can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. Key evidence may be lost, witnesses’ memories may fade, and the insurance company may delay or deny your claim.
It is always better to contact a personal injury attorney sooner rather than later. Even if you are unsure whether you have a valid claim, a lawyer can provide valuable guidance on your next steps.
When in Doubt, Contact a Lawyer
If you are unsure about whether or not you need a personal injury attorney after an accident, the safest course of action is to reach out for a consultation. Many personal injury attorneys offer free consultations, which allow you to discuss your situation and get a professional opinion on your case without any financial commitment.
If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident, do not wait to seek legal guidance. Contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible can help protect your rights, preserve evidence, and maximize your chances of receiving full compensation for your injuries and losses. Reach out to Liberatore Law Firm for a free consultation to discuss your case today.
