Many people are not aware of the legal circumstances and their rights when it comes to an injury from a car accident. It can be important for you to have a consultation with a personal injury attorney following an accident. Here are a few tips to help you decide when to contact a lawyer who focuses on this area of the law.
The severity of injuries and long-term effects
The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reported that 19,405 people sustained serious injuries in 2015 due to a motor vehicle accident. While it can be advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney in any case in which you have suffered an injury following an accident, it is especially imperative if the injuries you have sustained have brought you long-term effects such as disabilities. Serious injuries that do not cause a permanent disability but keep you out of work for an extended period of time are also good candidates for examination by an attorney with experience in the field who can advise you on your possible paths for recourse.
Insurance company disputes
Dealing with your insurance company following a car crash in which you have been injured can be a very complicated affair. Insurance companies have experience in handling claims following a vehicle accident; this is their expertise. However, as an average driver, you likely do not have the extensive knowledge required to negotiate or advocate for yourself, and this puts you at a distinct disadvantage. A qualified personal injury lawyer can alleviate this by working on your behalf with the insurance companies.
Financial hardship due to loss of wages
If you have suffered an injury in a car accident, chances are good that you have had to miss work or even leave your job entirely. Clearly, being out of work presents you with significant financial hardship. In addition to your healing and recovery process, now you have the added heavy pressure and stress of wondering how you will make up your lost wages in order to pay your bills and continue to support yourself and your family. Attorneys specialized in personal injury cases can advise you about your options regarding lost wages due to missing work after a car accident.
Contacting a personal injury attorney following a car accident can be an important first step. Speaking to a lawyer who can advise you on your rights, you can begin to discover the options available to you and find a path for attempting to recover lost income and effectively handle your insurance claim.
