What does a car accident lawyer do? They learn about your crash, determine who is liable, and, if warranted, seek compensatory damages on your behalf.
To learn more, schedule a consultation with a Charlottesville car accident lawyer who can address your legal concerns and questions.
What a Car Accident Lawyer Does During an Initial Consultation
A lawyer can advise you on the steps to take after a car accident. If you have not reported your accident to the police, they may recommend that you do so right away. Also, your attorney will ask you questions about your accident, as this will help them determine if you have a legitimate case.
Along with this and other things a car accident lawyer does, your attorney can help you make informed legal decisions. For instance, an insurer may offer a settlement within days of your accident, and your attorney will let you know if they believe that this proposal is fair. As such, your attorney can help you avoid car accident mistakes.
The legal team at MartinWren, P.C. was responsible for three of the 14 largest verdicts in Virginia in 2023, according to Virginia Lawyers Weekly. If you are interested in exploring your legal options following an auto accident, we are available to discuss them with you. Request a free consultation with our team’s auto crash attorney.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call 434-817-3100
What a Car Accident Attorney Does if You File an Insurance Claim
Your lawyer understands what to do after a collision and how to handle the claims process. They can prepare evidence that you can share with an insurance company. Your attorney can speak to an insurer for you, as this can help you avoid saying something that could hurt your chances of getting compensation.
For example, there are insurance requirements in Virginia, and your attorney may verify that you have adequate coverage. If so, they may encourage you to file an insurance claim. Your lawyer could help you negotiate with an insurance company on your behalf.
A liable motorist’s insurance company could dispute your claim or give inadequate offers to settle. If this occurs, your attorney keeps negotiating. They work diligently to settle, but if they cannot achieve their desired result, they may urge you to sue for damages.
What an Auto Accident Lawyer Does If I Sue for Damages
One of the first things a car accident lawyer will do is file your lawsuit in alignment with the Virginia statute of limitations. Generally, you have two years from the date of your accident to seek damages from a liable party. If this window closes, you may be solely responsible for your crash-related losses. In addition to statute of limitations, some claims in Virginia have even shorter notice periods that require you to provide notice of your claim months after the event. Failure to provide notice could jeopardize the claim. Figuring out these deadlines can be complicated legal matters than an experienced attorney can ascertain.
As part of your lawsuit, your attorney can help you collect evidence. Your body of proof could include accident scene photos, witness statements, medical records, and pay stubs. It may help you show that you deserve maximum damages.
In addition, your lawyer accounts for how the defendant in your case will approach your lawsuit. They will consider possible ways to dispute the defendant’s claims against you. If you have a strong argument, the defendant could offer a settlement, and your lawyer can help you evaluate a proposal to resolve your case and help you decide what to do with it.
What an Auto Accident Attorney Does If I Receive a Settlement
Your attorney can help you weigh the pros and cons of a settlement. They can provide insights into what is the average car accident settlement in Virginia and if you should accept a proposal. You — not your attorney — make the final decision on whether to move forward with an offer.
It can be overwhelming to consider the short- and long-term ramifications of any decision you make regarding an auto crash settlement. Your lawyer can provide insights into these. That way, you can use the information at your disposal to make a decision that lines up with your best interests.
As far as what a car accident attorney does if you decline a settlement, they continue to assist you with your litigation. Your lawyer can help you prepare for your trial. They will make sure you understand what the trial process entails.
What a Car Crash Lawyer Does During Your Trial
Though trials are rare in personal injury cases, when you present your case to a judge or jury, your lawyer advocates for you. They help you explain your side of the story and why you should be awarded damages. Your attorney argues your case, contests the defendant’s argument, and puts you in a strong position to receive maximum damages.
Furthermore, your attorney understands the challenges that come with dealing with contributory negligence. They want to make it clear to a judge or jury that you are not responsible for your accident. If the defendant raises doubts about who is liable and a judge or jury says you are in some way responsible, you may not recover damages.
Throughout your legal proceedings, your lawyer remains accessible. They can assist you at each stage of the legal process. Any time you have legal concerns or questions, your attorney can respond to them.
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Why It Helps to Have an Auto Accident Lawyer at Your Side
If you are debating when to get a lawyer for a car accident, think about what could happen if you choose not to hire an attorney. In this situation, you will tackle the legal process on your own. You could make mistakes along the way that cause you to miss out on damages.
An auto accident lawyer knows the ins and outs of the legal system. They put your best interests and legal rights front and center. Your attorney ensures that you are able to present a compelling argument that allows you to secure damages.
Your attorney can communicate and collaborate with insurance companies and others regarding your case. As they do, your lawyer keeps you updated. They may help you resolve your case without a trial or, if warranted, bring your case in front of a judge or jury.
Request Help from an Auto Accident Attorney
At MartinWren, P.C., we work tirelessly to help you get your life back on track after an auto collision or truck crash. Trust our team to assist you with your auto crash case.
Get started today by scheduling a free case consultation.
Call 434-817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
