When Should You Seek the Help of a Bakersfield Car Accident Attorney?

If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be considering whether a car accident attorney is necessary. Here are several signs that indicate you should seek legal help.

Signs You Should Hire a Car Accident Attorney

The other driver was uninsured or underinsured. The accident involved a hit and run. You were injured seriously. The insurance company is denying your claim.

With the right legal guidance, you can better recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you are located in Bakersfield, checking out a local Bakersfield car accident attorney is an excellent step.

Hiring a Lawyer Can Increase Your Compensation

After a car accident, you may have significant medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. These costs can continue for weeks, months, or even years after the accident. Studies show that car accident victims who have representation typically receive higher compensation amounts compared to those who are unrepresented. Legal representation can increase the average compensation by up to 50% or more.

Insurers often make underestimating offers to car accident victims. For instance, an insurance adjuster may claim they do not need a lawyer, but this is usually just a strategy to reduce the compensation that the insurer will have to pay. An experienced personal injury attorney is well-versed in the tactics of insurance companies and can help negotiate higher settlements for their clients.

Understanding the Scope of Losses from a Car Accident

The losses resulting from a car accident are not always clear in the days and weeks immediately following the event. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you better estimate potential future expenses related to the accident. Even minor injuries, such as whiplash, can become persistent or major issues requiring ongoing medical care. The full impact of injuries from a car accident can be extensive and include costs beyond obvious medical expenses.

Victims often underestimate their expenses and how long it will take to recover, leading to settlements that do not adequately cover the costs their family must bear after the accident. With comprehensive legal representation, victims can ensure a more accurate recovery estimate, leading to a higher compensation amount.

A Legal Misstep Can Affect Your Compensation

Missteps in a car accident claim can have serious consequences. Most car accident claims are settled out of court, but this does not mean that knowing the law is irrelevant. Without a solid legal understanding, victims may be in a weaker negotiating position, and insurance companies can easily take advantage by offering lower settlements.

There are numerous legal issues to consider, such as determining where to file the claim, which can be critical in deciding the method and the amount of compensation. Factors including the state statute of limitations, where the accident occurred, the type of injury, and the residency of the individuals involved can significantly impact the outcome of a claim.

For example, in Delaware, the negligence rule might apply, significantly reducing or eliminating a victim's compensation if they are at fault for the accident and more than 50% responsible.

No Drawbacks to Hiring a Lawyer

Any good lawyer will provide a free initial consultation either over the phone or in person. During this consultation, the lawyer will hear your story and advise you on whether you might benefit from a lawyer represent you. They will also explain how they can assist you and how they are paid.

The majority of car accident lawyers operate on a contingency or "no-win-no-fee" basis, meaning their fees are paid out of any compensation or settlement you receive. You do not need to pay anything for this initial conversation, and you do not need to make any commitments to hire the attorney.

By thoroughly evaluating your options, you can determine if a car accident attorney is right for you and ensure that your rights are protected in the event of a car accident.

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