Not everyone who has been in an automobile accident needs an attorney. However, it is not always easy to recognize when you may need an attorney. Below are some ways to tell when you should hire a personal injury attorney.
First, if you had a very minor accident with very few or no damages to your car, and you did not suffer any injuries, you likely do not need an attorney. The insurance company for the other driver should cover your damages, and you can get your car fixed and that will be the end of it.
Obviously, if you had a major accident with medical expenses, you took time off work, you had major damage to your vehicle, etc., you should hire an attorney. It’s likely if you settled with the insurance company directly you would not receive all the compensation to which you are entitled.
Some cases fall in the middle – there may be minor injuries and a moderate amount of damage to your car. For those cases, there is no harm in speaking to a reputable attorney who will advise you on the best course of action. It may be to negotiate the case on your own, or in some cases there may be aspects of the case that you haven’t considered, that mean that you need an attorney.
If you are unsure about the best course of action and you are in the Los Angeles area, call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles personal injury attorney at 310-385-0567. I can advise you on whether you should engage an attorney or handle the case on your own. Call today to schedule a free consultation on your case.