Do you have serious car accident injuries? If so, you may wonder if you should get an attorney. From Shealey Law Firm, here are 9 reasons why an attorney is essential after suffering serious car accident injuries.
9 Reasons to Have an Attorney for Serious Car Accident Injuries
- They can preserve evidence.
The things that you do right after a car accident matter. However, you need to focus on your medical care. An attorney can take the burden off you; they can preserve evidence and contact witnesses. These immediate steps can save you time later as you build your case. With an attorney, you have a trained professional. They can identify what needs to be done and get to work as you are resting and recovering.
- Compensation may be more than you realize.
Serious car accident injuries deserve serious compensation. In South Carolina, your rights don’t stop at your immediate medical bills.
Injury victims may claim non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, disfigurement, lifestyle changes, and other types of compensation. Often, these non-economic losses are a significant amount of compensation.
When we meet with clients, they’re often surprised to learn how much their case may be worth. A South Carolina car accident attorney can make sure that you don’t leave categories of compensation unclaimed. We know what is considered a serious injury in a car accident and how losses should be compensated. Once you understand the value of your case, you can claim your compensation.
- An attorney knows the law.
When you have serious car accident injuries, the compensation you receive is based on the law that applies to the case. On the surface, it’s simple – if someone else is legally responsible for your injuries, they should pay you compensation.
However, the law can be complex; there may be unique issues in your case. A lawyer knows the law, and they know how to apply it to benefit their client; they can prepare a legal strategy.
- An attorney knows the process.
There is a process for bringing a legal claim; the rules are called civil procedure. As the person making the claim, you must follow them.
You must also know the rules so that you know what to do if the defense doesn’t follow them.
These rules can help you gather evidence. You can use them to seek admission and exclusion of evidence from court. There is a process for disclosing witnesses, including experts, in advance of trial. Deadlines will apply leading up to trial. If you understand this process well, and use it to your advantage, it can strengthen your case. If you make mistakes, it can cost you, even if your case would otherwise be strong.
An attorney knows the legal process, and they can use it to strengthen your case. They can also minimize the burden of the legal process as you recover.
- Representation matters with the insurance company.
Having a car accident attorney lets the insurance company know that you’re serious about your case. They know that they won’t get away with undervaluing your claim; an attorney can help you negotiate strategically.
Sometimes, the insurance company will do things just to make things difficult. They may ask for burdensome discovery or invasive production of medical records. Your attorney can help you fight against these attacks, taking legal action and asking for protective court rulings.
- Comparative negligence may be a factor.
The defense may accuse you of being at fault, too. Comparative negligence looks at everyone’s actions and assigns fault, totaling up to 100%. If you’re at fault, it may limit your compensation, or even prevent you from getting compensation.
However, you’re not at fault just because the other side accuses you. An attorney knows legally what it means to be at fault, and they can defend you from unfair accusations.
- Strict time limits may apply.
There are time limits to claim compensation for serious car accident injuries. These are strict deadlines, even if you have a great case. It can take some time to investigate and prepare a claim. An attorney knows what the deadlines are, and they can prepare your case efficiently and make sure that you don’t miss deadlines.
- You need to focus on your recovery.
When you have serious car accident injuries, you need to focus on healing. Bringing a claim for car accident compensation is tiring – physically and mentally. Having an attorney means you have someone taking care of it, and you can focus on yourself and your family.
- Serious injuries can change your life.
Serious car accident injuries can change everything. When something so significant happens, it’s especially important to get the financial help and personal support that can benefit you. Knowing that the legal process is being taken care of can give you peace of mind.
Contact
If you have suffered serious car accident injuries, you need an attorney. At Shealey Law Firm, our car accident injury attorneys represent people in compensation claims. Contact us to see how an attorney can help you get legal help now.