Signs Your Car Accident Injuries May Need Legal Help

17 Feb Signs Your Car Accident Injuries May Need Legal Help

Posted at 08:30h in Car Accident by Kevin Sullivan 0 Comments

While some car accidents are little more than simple dings, others cause significant injuries and financial hardships. You might think that having an attorney is a must for a catastrophic crash, however, even “minor” car accident injuries can lead to long-term problems.

So how can you tell when to get legal help? Here are nine indications you should call a lawyer. If you identify with any of the scenarios listed above, contact Kevin L. Sullivan II at (813) 598-4868 today for a free consultation.

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Table of Contents

1. You Suffered Serious Injuries

And if you were seriously injured in a car crash, like suffering from traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or multiple broken bones, you should contact a local attorney as soon as you can. Such injuries need general medical treatment, rehab, and long-term care — expenses that balloon quickly.

A qualified lawyer can work to get you compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your attorney will also do everything that he can to prove that the accident was the cause of your injuries and that the party that was to blame for the damages to you needs to be held liable.

2. Significant Property Damage

In addition to injuries, vehicle collisions can create significant property damage. Your vehicle could be totaled, or high-value personal items inside — like electronics, luxury items, or work equipment — could be destroyed. These losses are frequently underestimated by insurance companies.

A lawyer will also assist you in determining the real cost of your property damage, smoke damage, receipts, or quotes for repairs, and in negotiating with insurers to make sure you get what you deserve.

3. The Accident Involved a Commercial Vehicle

Accidents that involve a commercial vehicle — like a delivery truck, bus, or rideshare vehicle — can present more complexity than the average crash. Liability, depending on the circumstances, could rest with the driver, the driver’s employer, or a company that serviced the vehicle.

There are tennis squads of lawyers for the trucking companies and commercial insurers trying to limit their exposure. You’ll need a lawyer already knowledgeable about Florida’s liability laws, who will investigate your case thoroughly and advocate aggressively to seek the maximum compensation permitted by law.

4. The At-Fault Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance

Florida states that drivers must have insurance, but many do not. It can be difficult, if not impossible, to obtain compensation if you are struck by an uninsured driver. And even if you win a lawsuit — and your insurance covers this for you — collecting can be challenging if the driver at fault has no assets.

An experienced attorney will seek out other possibilities, such as filing a claim under your own UM/UM coverage. They might also determine if the driver has undisclosed assets that can be accessed to cover your damages.

5. Fault Is Unclear or Disputed

It’s not always clear who’s at fault. If the other driver is at fault or there are multiple parties involved, you will need the assistance of a lawyer. An attorney will gather evidence — police reports, witness statements, video footage — to demonstrate liability.

They will also shield you from the insurance company attempting to unjustly assign blame to you.

6. Your Insurance Claim Was Denied

Because insurance companies make their money off your premiums, they sometimes deny claims they shouldn’t in order to avoid having to pay out. If your claim was denied with little explanation, it may be time to contact a lawyer.

An attorney can examine your case, contest the denial, and negotiate with the insurer. They can also sue the insurance company for bad faith if it is warranted.

7. You Received a Lowball Settlement Offer

After an accident, the insurance company will often rush to offer you a settlement. As exciting as that may sound, it’s typically a lot less than what you’re worth. Once you accept, you can’t go back and ask for more if additional medical bills or complications arise.

Do not agree to any settlements before having a lawyer review it. They can calculate your total damages—including future medical costs—and negotiate for fair compensation.

8. The Accident Involved Multiple Parties

With multiple drivers blaming each other, multi-vehicle accidents can lead to a legal disaster. If multiple parties are involved, you could be sued — even if you weren’t at fault.

A lawyer will help you untangle the liability issues, and protect your interest in your participation in such matters, so you can’t be wrongfully blamed. They can also work together with other victims to make the party responsible pay.

9. You Missed Work Due to the Accident

If you are unable to work as a result of your injuries, you can also claim for lost wages. In some cases, an accident could even drive you into a less-paying job or away from the job altogether.

A lawyer can help you to receive damages for your lost income — and for whatever you have lost in terms of your future earning potential as well.

Can You Appeal a Denied Insurance Claim?

Yes! You may appeal if your claim is denied. This could be:

– Internal Appeal – Many insurance companies give you the option to request an internal review of your claim as part of an internal appellate process.

– Arbitration – Some policies may also mandate mediation, in which an independent third party reviews the evidence and render

– Filing a Lawsuit – If the insurer is unwilling to be fair, you may be able to sue.

Appeals can be complicated, and having an attorney increases the chance that your case will succeed.

– Draft a detailed appeal letter

– Gather additional supporting evidence

– Negotiate with the insurance company

– Represent you in court if necessary

FAQs

Do I Need a Lawyer If My Injuries or Damages Are Minor?

Not always. In the event of a minor accident or if the insurance company is treating you fairly in the claims process, you may have no reason to seek legal assistance after an accident. But if you suspect that the other driver’s insurer isn’t acting in good faith, it could be helpful to consult an attorney. What if I cannot afford a lawyer?

What If I Can’t Afford a Lawyer?

You pay nothing upfront. Kevin L. Sullivan II receives payment on a contingency fee basis; you pay only if we win your case or obtain a settlement for you.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Florida?

First of all, does the State of Florida have a time limit on personal injury detectives? Contact an attorney as soon as possible so you don’t miss any important deadlines.

Will I Have to Go to Court?

Many of these car accident cases are settled outside of court through negotiations. Take your case to trial — If the insurance company does not offer you a fair settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial.

Get a Free Consultation Today

Do you need an attorney for car accident injuries? Kevin L. Sullivan II is here to help.

Our consultations are always free, with no obligation—so you have nothing to lose by reaching out and everything to gain when we fight for the compensation you deserve! Contact an experienced Florida car accident lawyer at 813 598 4868 today.