Why Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?

Each year, there are over 5 million car accidents in the United States, with 43% of car accidents resulting in injuries.

And for some victims, the worst part is often dealing with the aftermath of a collision, facing catastrophic injuries, property damage, emotional distress, and financial burdens. 

Recovering from a car accident can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding Indiana laws and navigating the legal system to claim compensation for their losses. In such situations, hiring a personal injury lawyer can be crucial to protecting your rights and interests, ensuring you’re claiming a fair amount of compensation. 

Today, we’ll show you the main reasons why our clients come to us for help with car accident cases.

Understanding of Indiana Car Accident Laws and Codes 

Indiana has specific laws and codes that govern car accidents, and navigating through these laws and codes can be challenging for victims without legal expertise. 

A lawyer familiar with Indiana laws can provide valuable guidance and representation throughout the legal process, helping you to understand your options and build a strong case.

For example, according to Indiana Code, Indiana follows a “fault” system, which means that the party at fault for causing the accident is responsible for compensating the injured party for their damages. 

However, determining fault can be complex and may require investigating the scene of the accident, reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and collecting other evidence. 

Following the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases

Furthermore, Indiana has a statute of limitations, which is the timeframe within which you must file a lawsuit for a car accident. According to Indiana Code 34-11-2, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including car accidents, is in most cases two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a lawsuit within this time frame can result in your claim being barred forever. 

A team of professional accident lawyers can ensure that your claim is filed promptly, protecting your legal rights and maximizing your possibilities to defend in negotiations or court.

Maximizing Your Compensation 

After a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:

• Medical expenses: Recover compensation for medical expenses incurred as a result of the car accident, including hospital bills, surgery costs, medication expenses, rehabilitation expenses, and ongoing medical treatment.
• Lost wages: If you have missed work due to injuries sustained in the car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This can include wages lost during your recovery period, as well as potential future lost wages if your injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
• Pain and suffering: Car accidents can cause physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish. You may be eligible to seek compensation for the physical and emotional suffering you have experienced as a result of the accident.
• Property damage: If your vehicle was damaged or destroyed in the car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. This can also include compensation for any personal property that was damaged or lost in the accident, such as electronics or other belongings.
• Wrongful death damages: If a loved one was killed in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for wrongful death, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

However, insurance companies are notorious for attempting to minimize the compensation they pay to accident victims. They may use tactics such as denying or delaying claims, offering low settlements, or shifting blame to reduce their liability.

A personal injury accident can calculate the true value of your damages, taking into account both current and future costs, and ensure that you are not shortchanged by accepting a low settlement offer.

Dealing with Insurance Companies 

Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and overwhelming, as adjusters are trained to protect the interests of the insurance company, and their goal is to settle claims for the lowest possible amount. They may use tactics such as taking recorded statements, asking leading questions, and pressuring you to accept a settlement quickly.

A legal team can level the playing field by representing your interests and dealing with insurance companies on your behalf. They can handle all communication and negotiations with insurance adjusters, ensuring that your rights are protected and helping you avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your claim, such as making statements that may be used against you later. 

Adequate Prove of Liability and Damages 

Proving liability and damages in a car accident case can be challenging, especially when there are disputes or conflicting accounts of the accident. 

Insurance companies may try to shift blame to the victim or downplay the extent of their injuries and losses, and in such cases, contacting an attorney can make a significant difference in building a strong case.

They can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gather evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions, and use this evidence to establish liability and damages.

Providing Objective and Unbiased Advice 

You may be emotionally and financially vulnerable in such a difficult time, which can cloud your judgment when making decisions related to your case. Other parties may take advantage of this vulnerability and try to pressure you into accepting a low settlement or signing a waiver that could release them from further liability.

Having a lawyer on your side can provide you with objective and unbiased advice. They can evaluate the true value of your case, assess the fairness of settlement offers, and guide you on the best course of action to protect your rights and interests.

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we understand the challenges and complexities of car accident cases in Indiana. Our team of car accident lawyers in Indiana is dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of accident victims and helping them obtain the compensation they deserve. 

Contact us today to request a free consultation and claim for justice.