Many car accidents resolve without the need for any legal action. However, in those other instances, when injuries are severe, the victim of the collision may wish to seek restitution. Filing a lawsuit does not require hiring an attorney, but a lawyer does provide a statistical advantage in settlement negotiations and trials. How do you know when to hire a lawyer, and why should you even consider it to begin with?
When to Hire
You should hire an attorney or at least consult with one immediately following your accident. While you can wait until you have an idea of your injuries and a preliminary understanding of costs, a lawyer who is brought in early can serve as an advocate throughout the recovery process. You also need to consider that severe injuries will often draw the attention of insurance companies, and you never want to talk about your claim without an attorney present.
Why You Should Hire an Attorney
While you may be interested in saving as much money as possible, attempting to argue a personal injury claim on your own is often a mistake. There are at least four reasons to hire a reputable attorney.
- Education
Lawyers spend an incredible amount of time gaining the essential knowledge to argue personal injury claims. They typically hold a four-year undergraduate degree and a master’s degree. While the degrees alone do not speak to their knowledge, the passing of the state bar does.
- Experience
How much time have you spent arguing cases in courtrooms or deliberating and negotiating settlement agreements in board rooms? A personal injury attorney has experience with fighting claims against insurance companies, and that experience is invaluable, especially when it is in your corner.
- Interpersonal relationships
Lawyers spend time with other lawyers and the people that make the judicial system function. The relationships an attorney develops help speed up the litigation process and also benefit clients because of oppositional research and knowledge.
- Negotiation skills
The main reason to hire an attorney is to take advantage of their negotiation skills. Personal injury attorneys know how to determine the value of a claim, and they know when an insurer is low-balling their client. Working with an attorney is a surefire way to ensure you get the best deal possible.
While you can file and argue a personal injury claim on your own, why would you ever want to? Contact a local lawyer, like a car accident lawyer from Minneapolis, MN from Johnston Martineau, PLLP, to discuss your case.
