Car accidents can be life-changing events, causing physical, emotional, and financial harm to those involved. It's not always easy to know when to hire a personal injury lawyer after a car crash, but an injured party must consider some key factors. In this post, we'll outline some situations when seeking legal representation from an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. Generally speaking, the answer is "the sooner, the better." The earlier a top Oregon personal injury lawyer can help you manage your claim, the more avenues to maximize your return you will have.
You Sustained Injuries in the Accident
If you've been injured in a car accident, seeking medical attention is essential. Even if you don't think your injuries are severe, it's best to get checked out by a doctor to ensure you're okay. Not all injuries present themselves immediately; some can take days or weeks to show up.
Once you've received medical attention, it's important to consult with a top-rated Oregon personal injury lawyer. If someone else's negligence caused your injuries, you might be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The Insurance Company is Not Cooperating
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be frustrating and stressful. Unfortunately, insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they may not always have your best interests at heart. They may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or offer a settlement far less than what you deserve.
If you're having trouble getting the compensation you deserve from an insurance company, it's time to hire a personal injury lawyer. An experienced Oregon car accident attorney can negotiate with the insurance company, ensuring you get a fair settlement.
The Other Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured
Even with car insurance, you may not be fully protected if you're involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. In Oregon, drivers must carry minimum liability insurance, but this may not be enough to cover all of your expenses if you're injured in an accident.
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, hiring a personal injury lawyer is essential. An experienced lawyer can help you explore other options for compensation, such as filing a claim with your own insurance company or pursuing a lawsuit against the other driver.
Are your injuries long-term or permanent?
If your injuries are severe and long-term or permanent, you may be entitled to significant compensation. However, calculating the total value of your claim can be complex and challenging. You'll need to consider not only your current medical expenses and lost wages but also your future medical care and potential loss of earning capacity.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate this complex process and ensure that you get the total compensation you deserve. They can work with medical experts to estimate the cost of your long-term care and negotiate with the insurance company to get a fair settlement.
There are Multiple Parties Involved
Car accidents can be complicated, especially if there are multiple parties involved. For example, if the other driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer may also be liable for your injuries. Similarly, the manufacturer may be held responsible if a defective auto part caused the accident.
In situations like these, hiring a personal injury lawyer is essential. An experienced lawyer can help you identify all the parties responsible for your injuries and ensure that you get the total compensation you deserve.
Final Thoughts
If you've been involved in a car accident, taking the proper steps to protect your legal rights is important. If you're unsure whether you need a personal injury lawyer, it's always best to consult with one. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your options and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
