When to Call a Lawyer After an Automobile Accident

Being involved in an automobile accident is unpleasant, leaving long-lasting trauma and injuries on many victims. Aside from the physical and emotional stress a car accident can entail, the expensive medical bills that in many cases, aren’t covered by your car accident settlement can become an enormous burden. This, as well as the importance of having an experienced law professional at your side to defend your rights, is why you must call an experienced auto accident lawyer when you’ve been involved in one.

In What Instances Is an Auto Accident Lawyer Necessary?

Although it’s helpful to have legal guidance when involved in any sort of accident or crime, not all automobile accidents call for an auto accident lawyer. If you’ve been involved in a serious or complicated accident of any kind, contact a lawyer as soon as possible. They will be the best prepared to help you build your case and will help you make the most informed decisions moving forward. If you’ve been involved in an accident included in the following list, you should contact an auto accident lawyer immediately:

• An accident that results in bodily injury (yourself or someone else)
• An accident where it’s not clear who’s at fault
• Any car crash involving another person, including pedestrians, other cars, trucks, or cyclists
• An accident in a school zone
• An accident in a construction zone
• Any car crash involving an underinsured or uninsured motorist
• Any car accidents involving drunk driving or reckless driving

Additionally, it would be important to contact an auto accident lawyer if:

• You disagree with the police report that has been written
• Your insurance company is sending you confusing or unclear messages regarding your settlement or liability concerns

What Steps Should I Take After a Car Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, there are a series of first steps you should take. They will help you get through the situation with the help of necessary professionals and will also help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

1. Call 911

It’s important you notify police authorities that there has been an accident. Medical teams will also be alerted to aid you or anyone who is injured. Your police and medical reports will be important documents for establishing who is guilty if there is a legal process.

2. Take Pictures

Although an attorney will help you gather all the evidence you need for your case, taking pictures at the accident scene can result in invaluable evidence. Take pictures of everything (license plates, injuries, surroundings, vehicle damage, and anything else that could be important when establishing fault).

3.Get the Other Party’s Car Insurance and License Plate Information

Don’t let the other party leave without getting all the information you need – their insurance and license plate information – and don’t lose that information as it will be essential when moving forward with your case.

4. Call an Auto Accident Lawyer

It’s important you get a car accident lawyer involved as soon as possible, as they will walk you through the best way to navigate conversations with your insurance companies, gather the evidence needed to help your case, and represent you in court if need be. Don’t wait until the last minute to call a lawyer, their experience is key and they will make sure your rights are protected.

What Can an Auto Accident Attorney Do for You?

An auto accident attorney will help you during each step of your legal process after an automobile accident. They will be key in ensuring you’re informed and your rights are protected when interacting with your insurance company. The main responsibilities a car accident attorney has are:

• Communicating with the other driver’s insurer
• Obtaining necessary evidence of liability
• Obtaining necessary evidence of damages
• Negotiating with lienors
• Negotiating with insurers/defendants

Gioffre Schroeder & Jansky has many years of experience with auto accident cases and our team will make sure to accompany you during your legal process and provide you with the defense you deserve in order for your rights to be protected. Call us at (216) 279-7579 today!