When to Get an Attorney for a Car Accident
Car accidents are frequent, and millions of people are involved in them annually. The last recorded statistics from 2022 were particularly deadly, with 4,000 fatal accidents and over 277,000 injury-related incidents. While some accidents are minor, others can be disastrous, resulting in severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities.
If you are involved in a car accident, understanding the accurate time to get an attorney to protect your interests is essential. This blog will discuss when you should consider hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento to handle your case.
When Should You Get an Attorney?
1. You Suffered Severe Injuries
If you or someone in your vehicle suffered severe injuries in the accident, it is important to hire an accident lawyer, Sacramento immediately. Serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and shattered bones, can have long-term consequences on your life. An experienced personal Injury Lawyer can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
2. The Fault is Disputed
If there is a dispute over who was at fault for the accident, hiring an attorney to represent you is a smart choice and also quite important if you want to win your compensation. The other driver’s insurance company may attempt to blame you, resulting in minor compensation or no payoff at all. An Auto Accident Lawyer in Sacramento can investigate the accident, collect evidence, and determine who was accountable.
3. The Insurance Company is Not Cooperating
If the other driver’s insurance company is not cooperating or delaying your claim, it is time to hire a car accident lawyer in Carmichael. Insurance companies are businesses whose primary goal is to maximize profits by minimizing the amount they pay out in claims. A skilled attorney can negotiate with the insurance company and ensure you receive a fair settlement.
4. You Have Missed Work
If you have missed work due to the accident, you may be qualified for compensation for lost wages. However, proving lost wages can be challenging, and the insurance company may dispute your claim amount. An experienced local attorney can help you gather the necessary documentation to prove your lost wages and negotiate a settlement that covers your financial losses.
5. You Have Significant Property Damage
If your vehicle has sustained significant damage in the accident, you may need an attorney to help you obtain a fair settlement from the insurance company. Insurance adjusters may undervalue your car or dispute the extent of the damage. An auto accident lawyer in Sacramneto can help you obtain an independent appraisal of the damage and negotiate a settlement covering the total cost of repairs or replacement.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
Knowing what to do in the moments after a car accident can make a lot of difference in the outcome of your case. It can protect your health, ensure you gather essential evidence, and put you in the best position to claim compensation.
Here’s what you should do right after a car accident -
1. Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services
Your safety and the safety of others should always come first. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get a medical evaluation as symptoms like whiplash or internal injuries may not appear until later.
2. Move to a Safe Area
If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safer area. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and avoid further accidents.
3. Contact the Police
Even in minor accidents, it’s essential to call the police to create an official accident report. This document is invaluable when filing insurance claims or if you decide to pursue legal action.
4. Gather Evidence
While you wait for the police, take photos of the accident scene, the damage to all vehicles, and any visible injuries. Make sure to document any road conditions, skid marks, or other factors that might have contributed to the crash. Also, get the names and contact information of witnesses, if there are any.
5. Exchange Information
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). Make sure you collect the driver’s name, license plate number, insurance company, and policy number. However, avoid discussing the details of the accident or admitting fault.
6. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, like concussions or soft tissue damage, may not present symptoms right away but could become serious later.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the details and the police report. Be mindful of how you communicate with the other driver’s insurer, as they may try to minimize your claim.
8. Consult with a Car Accident Attorney
After ensuring your immediate safety and medical care, consulting with an experienced car accident attorney should be your most important and final step. They can help you deal with insurance companies and make sure you get the full compensation you deserve.
Injured in a Car Accident? Let Doyle & O’Donnell Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve!
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, and it is essential to know when to get an attorney to protect your interests. If you or someone in your vehicle suffered severe injuries, it is time to hire an experienced attorney. The right attorney can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your losses and protect your rights.
At Doyle & O’Donnell, we have been helping accident victims in Sacramento and Carmichael for over 30 years. So, if you are confused and stressed about what to do after a major accident, Contact our team of trusted accident lawyers in Sacramento today.