When to Hire a Car Accident Attorney

Summary

• If you suffered an injury in a car wreck, you’ll need to hire a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
• Other reasons to get legal help include liability issues and insurance company disputes.
• Time is of the essence in hiring a lawyer. They must investigate the accident before evidence fades away. 
• Choosing the right attorney requires due diligence, such as performing online research and scheduling consultations. 

A car accident attorney will provide the best chance of obtaining maximum compensation if you’ve suffered an injury due to another’s negligent driving. As you’ll learn in this article, time will be of the essence in getting legal help. The earlier you hire a lawyer, the better job they can do of presenting the most compelling case possible.

The attorneys with Jones Law Group are standing by to help you get every dollar you deserve. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling 727-571-1333. 

Signs You Need a Car Accident Attorney

Car accidents on Florida roads often lead to catastrophic consequences. Florida had 388,929 accidents in in 2023, leading to 248,415 injuries and 3,278 catastrophic deaths.

Not all car accidents lead to wrongful deaths, of course. Minor fender-benders typically result in little more than a bit of property damage. In this instance, the drivers will typically go through their insurance companies to get the money needed for repairs.

But if any of the following apply to your accident, you’ll need to hire a car accident attorney immediately.

Severe Injuries and Medical Expenses

Severe injuries resulting from a car accident can have a profound impact on your life. If you or a loved one has sustained significant injuries, it’s a clear sign that you need legal representation. 

The significance of a severe injury goes beyond physical pain. It often involves extensive medical treatments, rehabilitation, and ongoing healthcare costs. Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and seeking fair compensation for escalating medical expenses requires the expertise of a skilled lawyer.

Complex Liability Issues

Car accidents may occur in circumstances where liability isn’t immediately apparent. Situations involving multiple parties or conflicting witness statements can complicate the determination of fault. An experienced car accident attorney can analyze the details of the accident, gather evidence, and use their legal knowledge to establish fault and liability.

Disputes with Insurance Companies

Insurers may attempt to minimize your claim, dispute liability, or offer a settlement that falls short of covering your damages. An attorney can be a valuable advocate in navigating these disputes. They understand insurers’ tactics and can develop compelling counterarguments to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.

When to Take Legal Action

In Florida, there is a limited timeframe of two years, known as the Florida statute of limitations, within which you must file a lawsuit after a car accident. Failing to adhere to this timeline can have severe implications, including losing your right to seek compensation. Understanding the time limits for filing a lawsuit is crucial, and consulting with an attorney promptly ensures you don’t miss the deadline.

But that doesn’t mean you should wait that long to fight for your rights. Your car accident attorney must investigate how the wreck happened and who’s liable. The investigation must begin as soon as possible before critical evidence about the car accident case disappears.

For example, your lawyer must go to the accident scene to look for skid marks, damaged street signs and guardrails, and other evidence. Rain can wash away skid marks, and construction crews can remove or repair roadside damage. If a nearby surveillance camera caught the accident on tape, your attorney must obtain the footage before it’s deleted or taped over.

There’s no understating the importance of a thorough accident investigation. It’s the foundation upon which your car accident attorney will build your case. Attorneys have the skills to conduct in-depth investigations, gathering evidence that strengthens their position. 

This investigation may include accident scene reconstructions, witness statements, and obtaining crucial documents. Presenting compelling evidence is a key advantage in negotiations or potential legal proceedings.

The earlier that investigation starts, the higher the likelihood your car accident attorney will be able to gather proof you weren’t to blame for the wreck.

Other Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney

Skilled car accident attorneys deliver significant legal expertise. They navigate complex legal processes, understand Florida’s specific laws, and provide expert guidance tailored to your case. They’ll protect your rights and ensure you clearly understand your legal options.

One of the most important benefits of getting legal help is to have someone who knows how to fight insurance companies attempts at devaluing your claim. The at-fault driver’s insurer will do all they can to deny your rightful compensation. But a seasoned car accident lawyer will work to compel them to do the right thing.

They’ll do this by negotiating a fair settlement, a process requiring great skill. Experienced attorneys know how to evaluate the value of a case, including all of your financial losses, known as damages. These include tangible damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.) and subjective damages, such as pain and suffering and emotional distress.

If the insurer refuses to settle, your car accident attorney will be ready to defeat them in a trial. Your lawyer will have the compelling evidence to prove your case and make the strongest possible argument on your behalf.

How to Choose the Right Car Accident Attorney

While hiring a car accident attorney immediately is essential, so is choosing the right lawyer. Use online resources, reviews, and recommendations from friends and family members who recently needed legal help. Conducting thorough research ensures you select an attorney with a track record of success and positive client experiences.

Also, schedule consultations with three or four lawyers if you can. These initial consultations provide an opportunity to assess the attorney’s expertise, communication style, and compatibility with your needs. Prepare questions to ask during these consultations, focusing on their experience, approach to your case, and potential outcomes.

Jones Law Group Attorneys are Ready to Help

Please don’t let the at-fault driver escape accountability for causing your suffering. A car accident attorney with the Jones Law Group will work passionately to hold them responsible and make them pay. We have extensive experience in cases similar to yours and have a long track record of success.

Schedule your free case review by using our online form or calling 727-571-1333.