Car wrecks can turn your life upside down in an instant. One moment, you’re going about your day, and the next, you’re dealing with a wrecked car, injuries, and the overwhelming stress that comes with it. It’s a lot to handle, and figuring out whether you need legal help from a Missouri personal injury attorney after a car accident can feel like yet another hurdle.
The truth is, when you’re involved in a wreck, the clock starts ticking on your opportunity to seek legal compensation. Continue reading to learn if and when you should hire a personal injury attorney.
Do You Need a Lawyer After Every Car Accident?
The simple answer is no. If it was a minor fender bender with no injuries, the claims process will usually be straightforward.
That said, complications can arise even in cases that seem simple—such as when the other motorist changes their story or when the insurance company tries to minimize your compensation. In these situations, legal help can ensure you’re treated fairly.
When do You Absolutely Need a Missouri Personal Injury Attorney?
Think disputes. If you and the insurance company cannot agree on one or more aspects of your personal injury claim, it’s always wise to involve an attorney. Rest assured, the other side will bring in their legal team the moment they realize the sweet-talking adjuster couldn’t get you to sign the paperwork, even after playing tough. These disagreements could involve:
- The liable parties
- The extent of liability
- The severity of your injuries
- The actual dollar value of your losses
As a general rule, you should seek legal assistance if multiple liable parties are involved, your injuries are serious, or in the case of wrongful death.
Why Should you Hire a Personal Injury Attorney in Missouri?
- An experienced attorney will not only be well-versed in local laws and procedures, but will also have a network of local lawyers, court officers, experts, and other professionals. This network can be invaluable in navigating the complex process of filing a Missouri personal injury claim.
- Experienced lawyers know how to accurately assess the value of your claim, factoring in both your current and future medical expenses, as well as the immediate and long-term impact of your injuries on your earning potential.
- Additionally, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring you don’t get cornered into accepting a lowball settlement.
- An experienced attorney will gather crucial evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case if the accident is contested.
- Your lawyer will guide you through deadlines and provide unbiased, sound advice on when it’s in your best interest to accept a settlement and when it makes more sense to go to court.
Simply put, without legal help, you might not know what you’re entitled to or how to pursue it.
When Should You Call a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
Ideally, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a car collision. The earlier you seek legal assistance, the better your chances of preserving crucial evidence and protecting your rights.
Moreover, if you wait too long, you could limit your ability to file a claim or lawsuit, potentially reducing your chances of success.
When Is It Too Late to Get a Missouri Personal Injury Lawyer After a Car Accident?
There are only two scenarios in which it’s too late to hire a personal injury attorney:
• If you are well past the statute of limitations. In Missouri, you have 5 years from the date of the accident or incident to file your claim.
• If you have already accepted compensation and waived your right to make further claims.
What Can Happen If You Don’t Get Legal Help?
You risk losing out on compensation that could cover your medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs. You might also find yourself shouldering the blame for the accident if you don’t have proper representation to counter the other party’s claims.
Why put yourself in this situation when legal help is just a phone call away? Call DeVaughn James Injury Lawyers at 816-999-9999 today. Our team of Missouri personal injury attorneys has helped hundreds of victims secure fair compensation, and we’re ready to help you too!