We’re often asked if it’s worth hiring a lawyer after a car accident. The answer is yes in certain circumstances, but it depends on how serious the crash is. Generally speaking, it’s worth getting an attorney for a serious car accident case, but you probably do not need a lawyer after a fender bender.
Having a car accident attorney on your side offers several benefits, and it’s often worth having some peace of mind after a crash. The team here at Martinson & Beason, P.C. would like to discuss when it’s worth getting a car accident lawyer, when you don’t need an attorney, and the benefits of hiring an attorney after a serious collision. We’ll also note possible legal fees for accident victims, and how our law firm eliminates the financial risks of getting a lawyer after a car crash.
If you were in a serious collision, we’re here to help. You can discuss what happened with us during a free, no-obligation legal consultation. To request a free case review with our trusted car accident attorneys in Huntsville, AL, contact our law firm today. You can also reach Martinson & Beason, P.C. by phone at (800) 255-6534.
When Should I Consider Contacting a Car Accident Lawyer?
You don’t always need a car accident lawyer when you get into a collision, but there are certain situations when it is in your best interests to at least speak with an attorney about your crash.
You Were Injured in a Car Accident
You should speak with a lawyer if you suffered any kind of injury during a car accident. An attorney can help you recognize the full scope and cost of your accident-related injuries, including past medical bills and any ongoing treatment. Remember that not all injuries are immediately apparent and that it can take several days to notice symptoms. After a collision, see your doctor for a full exam even if you seem fine.
You Lost a Family Member in a Fatal Collision
If you lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, it’s in your best interests to contact an attorney as soon as possible. It can take time to fully process the death of a family member and what it means for you and your household. A car accident lawyer can review the fatal crash, let you know if you can file a wrongful death claim, and get the process underway while you focus on grieving.
The Other Driver or Another Party Is to Blame for the Accident
When it’s clear that the other driver or some other party was at fault in the collision, contacting a car accident attorney can help you maximize compensation and hold that person accountable. This includes collisions involving drunk or intoxicated drivers, a crash caused by someone who was driving well over the speed limit, or a rear-end accident caused by someone who was texting while driving. It’s also worth speaking with an attorney if multiple vehicles were involved in the accident and more than one person may be to blame.
Your Car Was Totaled or Needs Extensive Repairs
A serious car accident will typically require major vehicle repairs. In some cases, your vehicle may be so damaged that you will need a new car, pickup, or SUV. An attorney can help assess the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. Your attorney can also note the cost of any car rentals, rideshare use, or other temporary transportation arrangements while your vehicle was in the shop or you were shopping for a new vehicle.
Your Personal Property Was Damaged in the Crash
In addition to vehicle damage, it’s worth speaking to a car accident attorney if any valuables or expensive personal property in the vehicle or on your person got damaged during the collision. This includes laptops, tablets, and phones, as well as any watches, jewelry, or family keepsakes that may be irreplaceable.
You Face Long-Term Financial Difficulties Because of the Collision
Serious injuries can lead to short-term, long-term, or permanent disability. You may be unable to work for an extended period of time, and you may lose out on future income because a serious injury affected your long-term earning potential in your current career. A skilled car accident attorney can recognize these future financial losses and ensure you seek compensation for them.
When Is It NOT Worth Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer?
You probably do not need to hire a car accident attorney if these situations apply:
- You Were in a Fender Bender: You do not need an attorney if you were in a minor accident that did minimal, cosmetic, or no damage to any vehicles involved.
- No One Was Hurt in the Crash: You do not need a lawyer if no one sustained any injuries in the minor car crash.
- It’s Clear Who’s at Fault: You do not need an attorney if it’s clear who was to blame for the minor collision and no one is disputing this fact.
- The Settlement Offer Is Fair: You do not need a lawyer if the settlement offer is fair and you are satisfied with the intended payout.
What If I’m Still Not Sure If I Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
It’s not always cut and dry if you need an attorney after a collision. You might have been in a minor accident, but the collision might have caused health issues that are only apparent weeks later. That’s why it’s best to err on the side of caution and speak with a lawyer just in case your claim may be worth more than you realize.
If you are unsure about any of these matters and want a lawyer to review what happened during your car accident, you can request a free consultation at our firm.
At Martinson & Beason, P.C., we’re happy to connect with people throughout North Alabama who need sound legal guidance. You have nothing to lose when you speak with one of our lawyers for peace of mind after a crash.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney?
Hiring a good, experienced car accident attorney means that you have an advocate who will be on your side against insurance companies after filing a claim. This has several benefits that you would not have if you decided to handle things on your own.
You Have a Season Professional to Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are not on your side. They will typically lowball their initial offers in hopes that you will accept a settlement. Insurance companies might also be slow in their responses or use other methods to strong-arm customers into taking less money.
A car accident lawyer can negotiate a better and fairer settlement with insurance companies. Your attorney will make sure your medical bills and other expenses are accounted for in any offer, and they can remain persistent and vigilant in the face of an insurer’s pressure tactics.
You Have a Legal Resource Who Will Investigate Your Accident
Car accident lawyers can thoroughly investigate your collision. They will review police and accident reports, any photos or videos of the crash, witness testimony, and any medical records about the injuries you sustained. Attorneys also have access to accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts who can provide additional insight into the causes of a collision and the lasting effects of any injuries you sustained.
You Have Representation to Dispute Your Liability in a Crash
Alabama operates under a strict contributory negligence rule. This means that you are not eligible for compensation if you are in any way responsible for a collision, even if you are just 1% at fault. The insurance company may claim that you were partly liable in a crash to avoid paying you anything. A car accident attorney can dispute this so that you can receive the compensation you deserve after a serious wreck.
You Are Ready If Your Car Accident Case Goes to Court
Your lawyer will always identify the best way for you to maximize your compensation after a car accident. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your car accident lawyer will discuss the possibility of going to trial and the potential risks of doing so. Your attorney will help you weigh your options and ensure you are making prudent decisions backed up by evidence and the likelihood that your case can be successful.
Your Lawyer Offers Reassurance and Peace of Mind
Negotiating a car accident settlement and building a strong case takes time. If you’re seriously hurt after a crash or are grieving the death of a loved one after an accident, your focus should be on healing and planning for the future. Going it alone means you’ll be forced into a difficult and likely drawn-out negotiation process with an insurance company that has all the leverage.
Your car accident lawyer will handle the paperwork, meet tight deadlines, and be your advocate so you can put your time and energy into what matters most to you. Having someone you can trust on your side can make a major difference while you are going through a difficult and potentially life-changing situation.
If I Hire a Car Accident Attorney, Does That Mean My Case Will Go to Trial?
Not necessarily. The vast majority of car accident cases are settled out of court. If your case does go to trial, having an attorney on your side will be crucial while seeking compensation for your injuries and other damages. Even if your case does not go to trial, it’s worth hiring an experienced car accident lawyer for that peace of mind they can provide.
How Much Does It Cost to Speak with a Car Accident Lawyer?
This depends on the attorney. Some lawyers will charge a consultation fee, while others may charge nothing for the initial consultation.
Here at Martinson & Beason, P.C., we want to make sure accident victims throughout Alabama have access to good, sound legal guidance without having to pay another bill upfront. This focus on people and their needs is why our firm continues to be trusted throughout the state.
At Martinson & Beason, P.C., Consultations Are Free
Consultations are free at our law office here in Huntsville. You don’t have to pay us anything to share your story. We can evaluate what happened and let you know if you have a viable case and what options are available to you.
If Our Lawyers Don’t Win, Clients Don’t Pay Any Attorney Fees
In addition to free consultations, Martinson & Beason, P.C. also operates on a contingency fee basis. That means clients only pay us if our attorneys can secure a settlement or win damages in court. If we don’t win, you don’t have to pay.
Our Law Firm Eliminates the Financial Pressure of Hiring an Attorney
With free consultations and contingency fee representation, Martinson & Beason, P.C. removes the financial burdens often associated with hiring a car accident lawyer.
Remember: You Aren’t Just a Client or Case Number to Us
Martinson & Beason, P.C. was founded in 1937. A big reason why our law firm continues to this day is that we treat every client who comes to us like a member of our family. We always strive to treat our clients like we’d want to be treated, which means returning your calls, keeping you informed, and making sure you understand your best options during every stage of your case.
Many of our attorneys grew up here in Huntsville or have strong ties to the local community. In some ways, our firm and its values have grown with the city, and we all look forward to offering a hand when our neighbors need help.
Request a Free Case Review with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
Don’t go it alone after a serious auto collision. If you’ve been seriously hurt in a car accident or lost a member of your family in a fatal crash, Martinson & Beason, P.C. can help. To request a free consultation with an experienced car accident attorney in Huntsville, AL, contact our law firm today. You can also get in touch with our lawyers by calling (800) 255-6534.