Every year in California, over 15,000 serious injuries occur as a result of car accidents. The resulting personal injury claims cost insurance companies millions each year.

That’s why insurers make it a point to call with a settlement offer before an injury victim’s wounds have even started to heal.

They know it’s more likely that an injured party will accept a low offer when they’re vulnerable, stressed, and in pain. And insurers never want to pay out more than they absolutely have to.

If you’ve been injured after an accident, you’ve probably already started getting these calls. You’re meant to be focused on healing. Instead, you’re growing overwhelmed and wondering how you’ll pay for your own recovery.

A personal injury attorney will take all of that off your plate so you can focus on getting better and moving forward. Keep reading to find out exactly how an injury attorney can help with your case.

Why Should I Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?

Many people wonder why they should spend money hiring a lawyer when they could simply handle their own personal injury claim. While this may seem like a good way to save money, it can end up costing you more.

If you mishandle your own case, you could risk losing a significant amount of compensation. Insurance companies will always offer the lowest amount they think they can get away with.

In addition to losing out on settlement money, it is likely you will end up hiring a lawyer later on when you realize you’re in over your head. In that case, you’ll be out a portion of your settlement money and the cost of a lawyer.

If you aren’t sure how to proceed with your claim, you should consider hiring a personal injury lawyer to offer you valuable legal help.

What Will a Personal Injury Attorney Do For My Case?

In addition to providing personal injury legal expertise, a car accident lawyer will be by your side to walk you through the entire claims process.

A decent lawyer will make sure you don’t just get the settlement you deserve. They will ensure you understand what is happening every step of the way.

Here are some of the ways a personal injury attorney can help you with your personal injury claim.

Gather Evidence

To build a solid case, your attorney will gather evidence to support your claim. This evidence may include police reports of the accident as well as any photographic evidence or camera footage of the scene.

A lawyer can also track down and interview potential witnesses to take their statements. They’ll get copies of any medical reports, property damage, medical records, bills, and employment information as well.

This evidence will be essential in proving liability for the accident. To win your claim you will need to prove that your injuries and damages are the results of another person’s negligence.

Investigate Claims

Personal injury attorneys don’t get paid for defending your case unless you win. Their compensation comes from a percentage of your winnings.

For this reason, personal injury attorneys don’t take on cases unless they think they can win. They will investigate your case thoroughly to make sure they can secure you a favorable settlement.

Negotiate With Insurers

Personal injury attorneys are well-versed in negotiating with insurance companies. It is a significant portion of the work they do. Which is why they are very skilled at it.

Your lawyer will review your insurance policy as well as the policy of the liable party. Independently, they will determine your maximum compensation rate based on the circumstances.

From there, your attorney will handle all communication with the insurer to negotiate a settlement.

Represent Your Case in Court

In the event your personal injury case goes to trial, a car accident lawyer can provide you with the necessary legal representation.

They will prepare complaints, initiate the discovery process, and depose witnesses and experts in preparation for trial. Since personal injury lawyers are experienced in court procedures, you can rest assured your case is in good hands.

When Do I Need to Hire an Attorney?

If you’ve been in a very minor car accident, you might not need professional legal help to win your personal injury claim. But sometimes it is highly unlikely you will get a favorable outcome without the help of one.

If you find yourself in any of the following situations, it is in your best interest to talk to a personal injury attorney before proceeding with your claim.

You’ve Been Seriously Injured After an Accident

Traumatic injuries and permanent disabilities are more complicated personal injury cases. This is because these cases require determining the future damages the victim will likely incur.

Suffering a disabling injury has lifelong consequences. Depending on your age and type of disability, you could require medical and therapeutic services for the rest of your life.

Even if your injuries are not disabling, minor injuries can turn into major injuries over time. If you accept a settlement too early, you could receive much less than you need to treat your injuries in the long term.

Additionally, the statute of limitations in California is two years from the time you become aware of your injury. So there is no need to rush a settlement.

A skilled personal injury attorney will make sure you wait until you are aware of the full extent of your injuries to file a personal injury claim.

You’re Having Issues With Insurance Companies

A personal injury can help when an insurance company denies your claim, ignores your claim or offers you less compensation than you’re entitled to.

Insurance companies have endless money and resources at their disposal. To level the playing field, make sure you have quality legal help too.

The insurance company will always do everything in its power to protect its own interests. With the help of a personal injury lawyer, you have someone protecting your interests.

Liability for the Accident Is Unclear

All California drivers have a duty of care to one another while driving. They are responsible for adhering to all of the laws and rules of the road.

Sometimes it isn’t clear which driver’s negligence caused an accident to occur. When this happens, it’s important to get the help of a lawyer to build a strong case that proves someone else was at fault for causing your injuries.

Find the Right Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you were injured after an accident, you can benefit from the expertise of a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can guide you through the claims process and make sure you get the settlement you deserve.

Don’t risk losing out on compensation by trying to handle your claim on your own. Contact the personal injury lawyers at Commonwealth Accident Attorneys to schedule a free consultation about your case.