When to Hire an Accident Attorney
“I was in an accident. Do I need an accident attorney?” We hear this question quite a bit. Here’s what we generally tell all of our clients.
There are a few indicators for whether you would need an attorney.
First, were you injured? If the answer is yes, then you should hire an accident attorney. Unfortunately, insurance companies will immediately bombard you with questions to try to disclaim coverage or they will offer a very small amount of money for your “troubles.” It is important that you protect yourself from the outset. If things go wrong from the beginning of your possible case, there is not much an attorney can do for you after the fact. Attorneys cannot turn back time or alter statements after they have been made. So, it’s best to be proactive.
Second, do you have property damage? If the answer is yes, then you should hire an attorney. An accident attorney can help negotiate better property damage value or even help negotiate with vehicle storage facilities. Sometimes, there is a lag between the accident and the time it takes to get your vehicle fixed. This lag can lead to excessive storage fees. Additionally, there can be a dispute as to what damage the accident actually caused to your vehicle and preexisting damage. It will help to have an attorney on your side, to help you get your car fixed in a timely manner, or to get you full value if your vehicle is a total loss.
Third, how has the accident affected your life? Have you lost time from work? Are you unable to do things that you were able to do before the accident? If the answer to these questions is yes, then you should hire an accident attorney. An attorney can help you achieve a better overall result for your possible case with these types of damages.
Lastly, something important to note: accident attorneys do not charge fees for representation until the conclusion of the case…if they recover money for you. Essentially, you have nothing to lose, because you pay nothing and owe nothing unless the attorney settles your case or tries your case to verdict. In this case, your attorney will take a percentage of your recovery as his or her fee. This percentage is set up front, so you will know exactly what percentage your attorney will take for his or her fee. If your attorney is unable to settle your case, or if your attorney loses your case at arbitration or trial, you walk away owing nothing. Accident attorneys know this, and usually only take cases they believe they can win. There is great risk in taking on a case that has a low chance of recovery.
If you have been in an accident, and would like to talk to an accident attorney, call our toll free number 855-822-6783 for a FREE consultation.
Rizio, Hamilton & Kane, P.C. toll free 855-822-6783 or local 215-567-1900
