How do I know if I need a lawyer...?

Someone asked me today if they needed a lawyer after being in a small automobile accident. The simple answer is it depends on what the damages were in your accident, but here are some guidelines to go by if you ever find yourself involved in an accident:

1. An accident with only property damage: If there are no physical injuries in your accident, you most likely do not need an attorney. By obtaining estimates for repair from a local auto shop, a person will have enough knowledge to discuss the situation with an insurance adjuster and obtain a settlement without the help of a lawyer.

2. An accident with minor physical injuries. If you are involved in a small car accident and the physical injuries are minimal, having medical bills of under $1000.00 and you heal over a few days, you most likely do not need an attorney. Hiring an attorney for this small a case will generally lead to a lower recovery for the person involved as there is no larger settlement to be negotiated.

Accidents with more than minor injuries: If you are involved in an automobile accident and there are physical injuries that do not heal over the following week, you are out of work for any amount of time due to these injuries, or you have medical bills totaling over $1000, you should speak to an attorney. An attorney will have experience and training in evaluating your case and negotiating with the insurance adjusters to obtain a fair settlement. People without an attorney in these cases are at a disadvantage when dealing with the insurance company. Do not be put off by the thought that hiring an attorney may decrease your overall payments. People who have attorneys get larger settlements from insurance companies. So if you want a fair settlement that actually pays for your injuries and damages, call an attorney before dealing with an insurance adjuster.

If you have any questions or comments please feel free to email me at lbowie@wbblegal.com or call my office at (401) 454-7700.