Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Not-at-fault crash? A lawyer can stop insurers from twisting statements and pushing low settlements after injuries and car damage. See signs to call a California auto accident attorney, deadlines to file, and how contingency fees work.

By Brad Nakase, Attorney

Email  |  Call (888) 600-8654

Have a quick question? I answered nearly 1500 FAQs.

Introduction

You should always get a lawyer for a vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault. If you weren’t the cause of the tragedy, you might assume everything would go as planned. However, regardless of how obvious the situation may appear, insurance companies actually make things difficult.

Additionally, hiring a lawyer does not imply that you are seeking conflict. When the system retaliates against you, you know you should be protected.

After you’ve been injured, disoriented, and wondering who you can trust, a dependable car accident lawyer steps in to help. They handle the phone calls, paperwork, & stress. You can focus on getting your life back.

Speak with a California Auto Accident Attorney Right Away

When you’re the one handling an automobile accident, nothing about it seems insignificant. Your car is in the shop, you’re in agony, and work takes a backseat. In addition to all of that, the insurer begins to question you.

Many people wonder, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?” It’s important to understand how insurance companies actually operate.

Some adjusters attempt to minimize your injuries or imply that you bear some of the blame. Others dispute how terrible the crash truly was. A California personal injury attorney steps in to defend you while maintaining the facts straight.

They take care of the insurance back and forth, collect the important paperwork, and assist you in finding the appropriate physicians. You may concentrate on healing and putting your life on the right track while they handle the legal aspects.

Related: What happens if someone else is driving my car and gets in an accident

Why You’re Not Always Protected by Fault in California

The fault-based methodology used in California does not guarantee a seamless procedure. Insurance firms continue to search for strategies to lower or reject claims. They are adept at turning your social media posts, medical records, and even comments against you.

They can say that your injuries have nothing to do with the crash or that you bore some of the blame. They may say that you delayed too long in seeking treatment, so you must not be very unwell. Someone who is aware of these strategies and can counter them is what you need.

Situations like these explain why many injured drivers reconsider, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?”

A detailed plan for safeguarding you from beginning to end is what an accident attorney brings to the table.

Indications to Contact a California Auto Accident Lawyer

Some survivors of crashes don’t require assistance. But if any of the following apply to your circumstance, you ought to consult with a California automobile accident attorney:

  • You need follow-up care or immediate care for your injuries.
  • The other driver either left the scene or denied any wrongdoing.
  • The insurance company previously offered a payout.
  • Your vehicle required significant repairs or was totaled.
  • The crash caused you to miss work or lose money.

There is frequently more to these cases than catches the eye. A lawyer can assess the circumstances and outline your legal rights in California.

California’s fault system is one reason people rethink “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?”

The Real Work of a California Auto Accident Attorney

Some individuals believe attorneys only appear in court. In actuality, the majority of the work is done in the background. A California auto accident attorney assists you in:

  • Assessing the crash & securing evidence
  • Dealing with the insurance firms
  • Assisting you in obtaining medical care and records
  • Finding the total amount of your losses
  • Submitting a lawsuit or claim prior to the deadline

From the start, they strive to make a compelling case. In this manner, if the insurance refuses to engage in negotiations, they are ready to proceed to the next step.

Timeline to File a Claim

You have 2 years from the day of the collision to initiate a claim for personal injury. This rule is in the majority of California auto accidents. However, that deadline may be altered.

If your accident included a government car or an unsafe condition on government property, you might have to submit a claim within six months pursuant to the California Government Claims Law. Failing to meet the deadline can terminate the process before it begins.

There’s no need to wait until it’s too late. Once the opportunity closes, the judge may toss out your case totally, no matter how solid it is.

What Is the Cost of a Lawyer?

Most California automobile accident lawyers operate on a contingency premise. In other words, there is no upfront payment. Rather, the attorney is only compensated if you win money.

They also cover all legal costs when they arise. They never require consumers to pay for reports on accidents, expert assessments, or filings in courts out of pocket. You can get legal assistance with this configuration without thinking about the expense. They assume the risks so you can concentrate on recovering.

How Unrepresented Drivers Are Abused by Insurance Companies

When you attempt to manage things independently, insurance firms adore it. They are aware that you have most likely never dealt with this issue before. This provides them with a chance to:

  • Put pressure on you to take a quick, cheap settlement.
  • Request quotes that they can subsequently distort.
  • Most of the crash is your fault.
  • Undervalue your suffering, missed income, or upcoming medical care.

That behavior normally ceases after you employ a lawyer. The insurer is aware that someone is keeping an eye on you and is prepared to hold you responsible.

What If There Is No Insurance for the Other Driver?

You shared details after the incident. You see that the other driver is not insured. It can be like you hit a wall right then and there.

Although uninsured motorist protection can fill the void, full compensation is not guaranteed. The severity of the wounds may still be questioned by your own insurer, or they may attempt to settle the matter for less than what it is worth.

An attorney analyzes your policy, establishes the applicable protection, and speaks immediately with the insurance provider. While you’re attempting to heal, you don’t have to look for answers.

It is important to take the question “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?” seriously before getting into any trouble.

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

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