Three Reasons To Consult With An Auto Accident Attorney After A Traffic Collision

Car accidents are common, but if you find yourself involved in one, you will likely wonder if you really need an attorney. The truth is that with most fender benders, you're not going to need any legal representation. Exchanging your information with the other driver and filing a claim is a straightforward process. There are times, however, when you should consult with an attorney. The following are a few examples.

You initially believed you weren't injured

This happens a lot of the time. Directly after a car accident, you might feel fine, but in the next day or two, you realize something is wrong. When this happens, you should seek medical attention immediately. People are often unaware of a problem until their body has time to rest. It is only after this that a physical issue from the accident will manifest itself. However, don't be discouraged because you didn't see a doctor right after the accident. It is true that an insurance company may try to argue that your medical problem was unrelated to the car accident, but an attorney sees this type of delayed reaction frequently. Consult with a car accident lawyer, and let them negotiate with the insurance company.

You believe you sustained only minor injuries

Minor injuries can be deceptive. These types of injuries can occur with fender benders. There's some damage to your car, but because you assume your injury is mild, it's just a question of exchanging insurance information and filing a claim. The problem is that a minor injury, especially to your neck, can develop into a serious injury that can last a lifetime. Minor injuries should be treated by a doctor, and any pain in the back or neck area should be looked at by a physician. Likewise, any dizziness, headaches, or confusion should be reported to a doctor because head injuries can also be worse than they feel. After medical treatment, seek legal advice.

You've been seriously injured

Seriously injured usually means you are taken to the hospital by paramedics. You may be kept overnight, or maybe you end up in the hospital for several days or even weeks. In this situation, it may seem obvious that you should consult with an attorney. However, insurance companies know this, so they send a representative to speak with you at the hospital to offer you a settlement. Under no circumstances should you sign any paperwork regarding this offer. For one, the offer will be low, favoring the insurance company. Two, there may be one or more clauses in the paperwork that will benefit the insurance company at your expense.

If you are seriously injured in a car accident, always consult with an attorney. Likewise, if you only have minor injuries or feel pain a couple of days later, call an attorney.

Contact a law firm like Cartee & Lloyd Attorneys At Law to learn more. 

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