Car accidents, both minor and catastrophic, are stressful events that nobody anticipates. Depending on the circumstances of the collision, the damages to your vehicle, and if any injuries were sustained, it may be wise to seek the advice of a trusted law firm. An experienced personal injury attorney will be well-versed in local laws, insurance tactics, and how to pursue the compensation to which you may be entitled.
In the event that liability is disputed or legal action is warranted, an attorney will know the kinds of evidence needed, how to collect it, and how to demand a settlement that fairly reflects your injuries and anticipated losses.
Do you need to hire a lawyer after a motor vehicle crash?
Motor vehicle accident claims – even seemingly minor cases – take an extraordinary amount of effort and skill to successfully resolve. Having a capable Lafayette personal injury lawyer in your corner can take the pressure off victims, allowing them the time and space to focus on getting better. Without the guidance of a well-informed lawyer, you may be pressured into taking a premature settlement from the insurance company that is much less than what you actually deserve. Or, you may miss crucial deadlines that wipe out your opportunity for legal recourse.
Is it really worth hiring a lawyer after a car accident? It can be, especially if another party is clearly at fault, and you have suffered physical or emotional injuries. Keep in mind that the majority of reputable personal injury attorneys will take your case on a contingency-fee basis. That means they have the resources to front all costs for your case, and collect their fees only if a settlement or court verdict is recovered on your behalf.
Experienced legal counsel can protect your rights
If there was negligible property damage, and no one was hurt, getting legal counsel may not make sense. But if any of the following scenarios apply to you, Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers can help protect your rights.
- The car accident resulted in serious injuries or loss of life
- Your injuries have kept you out of work for weeks or months
- You were hospitalized and have a long recovery
- The accident caused permanent disfigurement or disability
- Multiple vehicles were involved in the accident
- Several drivers may be liable, and responsibility is contested
- Your long-term health has been negatively impacted
- The accident has caused you to suffer emotional trauma, anxiety, and depression
- The accident occurred where road work was being performed, or in a construction area
- Involved insurance companies are playing hardball
When you come to Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers looking for answers, we will give you an honest opinion on whether you have a strong claim for damages, and if you need legal representation or not. If our team believes you will benefit from our support, and you retain our services, you do so with no financial risk or upfront payments.
We know that the decision to hire a personal injury attorney is one that only you can make. It is our goal to explain how the laws pertain to your particular accident case and advocate for the justice you deserve.
How legal representation can help
Car accident cases almost always settle out of court, but insurance companies will take advantage of unrepresented claimants who do realize their own potential for legal recovery. A good personal injury attorney will be able to properly evaluate the value of your claim, accounting for past and future damages including medical bills, lost income, physical pain, and emotional suffering. If you were incapacitated from the accident, your loved ones may be able to recover for the loss of your support and companionship.
In addition to being an accomplished negotiator, your attorney must also have trial skills in the event that your claim does go before a jury.
Since 1997, Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers has been protecting the rights of truck and car accident victims throughout Louisiana and has a proven history of outstanding case results. We conduct thorough investigations, hire expert witnesses when needed, and routinely stand toe-to-toe with deep-pocketed defendants. Call our offices to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a Lafayette car accident lawyer today.
