If you’ve been involved in an auto accident, there will be many questions that come up. One of those is, “Will I need an attorney?” An attorney can ensure that you are being dealt with fairly by the insurance companies as well as defend you if you were at fault in the accident.
You should call a lawyer if:
- Clear fault has not been determined in an accident
- There are physical injuries that require medical treatment
- You are unable to go to work or school as a result of your injuries
- Injuries require hospitalization and long-term physical therapy
- More than one vehicle or a pedestrian was involved in the accident
- One or more deaths were caused by the accident
- Alcohol or drugs were a factor in the accident
- The police report is vague and incorrectly places fault on you
- Your insurance company is using their own attorney
- The insurance company tries to settle quickly before you are recovered from your injuries
- You do not know or understand your rights in your case
- You are unsure what your policy covers and how to use your benefits
A personal injury lawyer will work for you and not receive payment until you have received your settlement. At that time, they will take a previously agreed upon percentage of your settlement as payment when your case is closed. Usually this contingency amount is 30-40% of the money you are receiving.