Not all car accidents are created equal; getting into a minor fender-bender while trying to find a parking spot in Salt Lake City is totally different from getting into a high-speed collision on the I-15 outside of Farmington, Utah. So when does your auto accident dictate hiring a lawyer? Mostly, it depends on injury.
Someone Has Been Seriously Injured
If either you or the other party has incurred serious injury such as broken bones, paralysis or any other potentially permanent injury, you’ll want to contact a lawyer immediately. Any serious injury means that serious money is at stake — and you’ll want all the help you can get. Auto accident injury claims can drag on for an extended period of time, and hiring a professional can help speed up the process exponentially.
Fault Is Contested
If the other party swerved into your lane on your way to Farmington, but is now arguing that you were the one who was negligent, you should contact a lawyer right away. If the other driver were to successfully prove that you were responsible for the accident, you will lose all compensation — and walk out of the situation significantly poorer than when you first arrived. Furthermore, someone who is contesting fault in an auto accident has likely already hired a lawyer himself, so it’s time to up your game.
You Have to Go to Court
Often coinciding with serious injury or death, more serious auto accident claims often result in one party taking the other to court. If you can’t arrive at a settlement amiably — or even if you can — having an experienced auto accident lawyer on your side can ensure you get all the compensation you deserve. In addition, court proceedings require you to have a lawyer representing you, so you might as well hire one with experience in auto accidents.
You’re Racking Up Expenses
If your mailbox post-accident is full of large medical bills from the local Farmington hospital, you might want to consider hiring a lawyer. Dealing with your insurance company over a $5,000 bill is one thing, but how about a $35,000 bill? If you suddenly find yourself faced with a slew of imposing medical and car shop bills, you could benefit from some legal expertise to help you sort everything out. Nobody enjoys dealing with his or her insurance company — luckily, your lawyer can do that for you.
Not all auto accident claims require legal representation, but if you have a complicated case on your hands or you’re drowning in medical bills, an auto accident lawyer can help you get back on your feet. Whether you live in Farmington or Salt Lake City, don’t hesitate fight for the money you deserve.