Whether or not you should hire a lawyer after a car accident in Texas (or any state) generally depends on the severity of the accident, the clarity of fault, and whether injuries or significant property damage occurred.
Here are some circumstances in which it would be wise to consider hiring an attorney:
- Serious Injuries or Fatalities: If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries, long-term impairment, or if there were fatalities in the accident, you should consult with an attorney. The medical expenses, lost income, and other costs associated with such accidents can be substantial and often require extensive negotiation or court proceedings to recover.
- Dispute Over Fault: If the fault for the accident is being disputed and you believe you are not responsible, an attorney can help present evidence to support your case.
- Complex Legal Issues: If your accident involves complex legal or technical issues, such as product liability (faulty vehicle parts), government liability (dangerous road conditions), or unique insurance policy provisions, you would benefit from legal counsel.
- Insurance Company Disputes: If the other driver’s insurance company is disputing the claim, refusing to pay, or proposing a settlement that doesn’t cover your expenses, an attorney can negotiate on your behalf and help ensure you’re adequately compensated.
- Uninsured or Underinsured Driver: If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, recovering damages can be complicated. An attorney can help you explore all potential sources of compensation.
On the other hand, if the accident was minor, resulted in no or minimal injuries, and the fault is clear, you may not need a lawyer. You might be able to handle the insurance claim yourself.
Remember, most personal injury attorneys offer a free initial consultation, so it may be beneficial to speak to a lawyer to get an understanding of your options and potential outcomes. Also, keep in mind that there are deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits (known as the “statute of limitations”), so you should seek legal advice as soon as possible after an accident if you believe you may need it.
Contact the Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas today for help finding a qualified car accident lawyer who is right for you.
Since 1966, we have helped hundreds of thousands of Austin and Central Texas residents and businesses find the right lawyer to work tirelessly on their behalf and get the results they deserve.
Get an instant referral online, 24/7 or call the Lawyer Referral Service during regular business hours (8:00 AM to 4:30 PM) at (512) 472-8303. We want to help.
