The immediate aftermath of a car accident is often chaotic and confusing. Victims of car accidents caused by another driver often have to deal with injuries, medical bills, and property damage simultaneously. 

They must also communicate with their insurance provider and the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Victims often do not realize insurance companies’ tactics to minimize settlement payouts. 

An insurance company may make a low-ball offer that does not nearly cover all of a victim’s expenses. Because the victim is likely still dealing with the fallout of the accident, they may agree to the offer just to get it over with.

Victims should not accept the first settlement offer made by any insurance provider. Instead, they should hire an experienced car accident lawyer to negotiate with the insurer. 

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

Car accident lawyers specialize in cases where victims have been injured or suffered losses after a car accident. They have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of personal injury law, including insurance policies and the litigation process. 

A car accident lawyer can help protect your rights if you have suffered injuries or damages after a car accident. They can do so even if you were partially at fault for the accident.

Moreover, a car accident lawyer can secure the maximum payout from the relevant insurer to cover your medical expenses and loss of income.

A Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Build a Strong Case

If you want to sue the other driver after a car accident, your lawyer can help you build a strong case. To do this, your lawyer will:

• Get a copy of the official accident report: The police report will give your lawyer the details they need, including the time, date, and location of the accident.
  
• Get a copy of all your medical records: If you accepted medical treatment after the accident, your records will link your injuries to the accident. This link is crucial to proving that the other driver was at fault for the accident.
  
• Scrutinize photographs and video footage of the accident: Visual evidence is important in cases where the at-fault driver’s version of events is disputed. Your lawyer can also use photos and video footage of the surrounding area where the accident happened. If you took photos of your visible injuries, this could also count as evidence against the at-fault driver. 
• Get witness statements: If there were bystanders and witnesses at the time of the accident, your lawyer would get their statements to strengthen your case. 

Throughout the legal process, your lawyer will go over the accident details and consult with the relevant experts to build a strong case. 

Your Lawyer Will Negotiate with Insurance Companies

Your car accident lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies after sending an initial demand letter. It is an unfortunate truth that most insurers prioritize their bottom line above paying out fair settlements. This is where low-ball offers originate. 

Your lawyer can also speak to insurance adjusters while keeping your rights as a victim the focus of the conversation. 

Claiming for Damages

Before your lawyer sends a demand letter, they must determine the full extent of your damages. This is a major part of ensuring you get the maximum settlement from the relevant insurer.

Your lawyer will help you calculate both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are medical costs, loss of income, property damage, and the loss of future earning potential. 

Non-economic damages are not as easy to calculate because they refer to pain, suffering, and emotional distress. But you can still include these damages in your claim. 

The Legal Process

Your lawyer can take over every part of your case, including filing the paperwork and exchanging information with the opposing party. The lawyer will actively participate in all negotiation processes. If there is no way to settle the claim, the lawyer may suggest mediation. If this also fails, your lawyer can represent you in court. 

Maximizing Your Settlement

Car accident lawyers know all the factors that influence settlement amounts, including the severity of injuries. Their expertise in personal injury law and honed negotiation skills allow them to argue these factors to maximize a client’s settlement.

Your lawyer will always fight to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. 

Your Next Steps

If you have been involved in a car accident, your next step is to hire a car accident lawyer. Book an initial consultation to explain your situation, injuries, and damages. The lawyer will advise you of the most likely outcome of a personal injury case and your chances of winning. 

If you go ahead with the case, you can focus on getting better while your lawyer fights for your case on your behalf.