If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you know it can be a stressful and confusing experience. On top of dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance companies, you may also be facing lost wages and mounting medical bills. This is when a car accident attorney can really make a difference. Many people don’t realize the true value a car accident attorney brings, especially when navigating the complexities of personal injury law.

Don’t navigate your legal issues alone! Schedule a case evaluation with Bumbaugh George Prather Attorneys at Law today. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and provide expert guidance.

Why You Might Need a Car Accident Attorney

It’s tempting to think you can handle a minor accident yourself. However, insurance companies often try to settle quickly for the least amount, leaving you with lingering expenses and less than you deserve. An accident attorney will fight for your rights and ensure you get maximum compensation for your accident case:

  • Medical expenses.
  • Loss of consortium.
  • Lost wages.
  • Pain and suffering.
  • Punitive damages (if applicable).

How a Car Accident Attorney Builds Your Case

A skilled car accident attorney knows how to build a solid case, even if the accident seems straightforward. Their role as your legal counsel is to make the legal process easier to navigate for you.

This includes:

  1. Investigation: They will investigate every detail of the accident, reviewing police reports, accident scene photos, witness testimonies, and even potential traffic camera footage.
  2. Evidence Collection: Gathering crucial evidence like medical records, bills, pay stubs, and repair estimates is essential for substantiating your claim. This also includes gathering evidence of road conditions, if applicable.
  3. Negotiation: Car accident attorneys are experienced negotiators who can deal with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement for your accident claim.
  4. Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney is prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights before a judge and jury.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Experience

Though you may think that a minor car accident may not warrant an attorney, clients who hire experienced attorneys earn a settlement check that is on average 3X larger than those who do not. An attorney is especially crucial in cases involving drunk drivers, motorcycle accidents, workers’ compensation, and premises liability:

  • Distracted Driving: With distracted driving on the rise, accidents involving cell phones, texting, and other driver distractions require careful investigation and proof of negligence. An injury attorney will help determine if the at-fault driver was on the job, potentially allowing you to file a workers’ compensation claim.
  • Drunk Driving Accidents: These cases often involve criminal charges and navigating the complexities of both criminal and civil lawsuits. An attorney will be well-versed in DUI laws. An attorney can also help if you’re injured on someone’s property, also known as premises liability.
  • Hit and Run Incidents: An attorney can be invaluable when the at-fault driver flees the scene. They can help track down the responsible party, if possible. This also includes investigating accidents involving a commercial vehicle, like a bus accident.

What Happens in a No-Fault State?

Pennsylvania, like some other states, has a “no-fault” auto insurance system. This means that your own insurance covers your initial medical expenses after an auto accident, regardless of who was at fault. This may sound simple, but it often leads to confusion about what happens when injuries are serious, or expenses go beyond those initial limits. Many times, individuals think they don’t have a case in these situations.

Even in a no-fault state like Pennsylvania, an attorney is valuable. They help determine if your injuries qualify as serious enough to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver. This often hinges on the definition of “serious injury” as defined by 42 Pennsylvania Statutes section 5524. These nuances and intricacies of the law are where having a dedicated attorney truly pays off.

The Sooner You Contact a Car Accident Attorney, The Better

Don’t wait to seek legal advice after your accident. The sooner an attorney is involved, the better they can protect your rights, especially with cases involving a rideshare accident. Because evidence can disappear quickly after an accident, an attorney can take immediate action to preserve evidence. Additionally, in most states, including Pennsylvania, there’s a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. Meaning, you have a limited time to file a lawsuit.

Conclusion

Whether it’s a fender-bender or a serious collision, an accident is never easy. While it’s true that not all accidents require legal representation, having an attorney by your side can make a significant difference. Not only can they help you navigate the often-confusing legal process, they ensure your rights are protected so you can focus on your recovery.