After a car accident, many people know to contact the insurance company and emergency services, but is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident? The truth is that the right answer depends on the severity of the crash, the extent of your injuries, and how cooperative (or uncooperative) the insurance companies are.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of hiring a car accident lawyer, situations when you likely need legal help, times you might not, and how to make the best decision for your situation. At Simon Law, our experienced team has helped countless crash victims across Missouri and Illinois recover fair settlements when insurers tried to minimize or deny their claims.
When You Should Consider Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
Not every car accident requires a lawyer, but many do. If your situation fits one of these scenarios, reaching out to an attorney could make a big difference in the outcome of your claim.
You Suffered Injuries
Medical treatment after a crash can quickly become overwhelming. Even what seems like a “minor” injury may result in:
- Emergency room bills
- Ongoing physical therapy
- Prescription medication
- Lost income from missed work
- Future medical care for long-term effects
Insurance companies often downplay the seriousness of injuries or argue that treatment isn’t necessary. A car accident lawyer makes sure all damages are accounted for, including long-term care costs, so you aren’t left footing the bill later.
Liability Is Unclear or Disputed
Accidents involving multiple vehicles, commercial trucks, or unclear fault can quickly get complicated. Insurance companies may try to shift blame or deny responsibility.
An attorney can:
- Gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and crash reconstructions
- Work with medical and accident experts to prove your case
- Protect you from being unfairly blamed
In cases involving large vehicles, like semi-trucks, having representation is even more critical. In trucking accident cases, you’re going up against the trucking company’s insurance, which may require more resources to fight against to protect your rights.
The Insurance Company Is Lowballing You
It’s no secret: insurers want to pay out as little as possible. If you’ve received an offer that doesn’t cover your full costs, that’s a red flag.
Car accident attorneys know the true value of your claim and negotiate aggressively on your behalf. With legal support, many clients receive significantly higher settlements than they were initially offered.
You’re Unsure About the Claims Process
Filing an insurance claim may seem straightforward, but the reality is much different. From strict deadlines to confusing forms, small mistakes can delay or even derail your case.
Having a lawyer means you’ll get clear guidance, fewer headaches, and the peace of mind of knowing every detail is handled correctly.
When You May Not Need a Lawyer
Not every car accident requires hiring an attorney. In some straightforward situations, you may be able to handle the insurance claim yourself. That said, it’s still wise to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer to confirm you’re not overlooking potential issues.
Minor Accidents with No Injuries
If the accident only caused a small dent or scratch, with no injuries to you or your passengers, it often makes sense to file a claim directly with your insurance company. These cases usually involve:
- Low repair costs
- No medical bills
- No lost time at work
However, you should be cautious. Some injuries, like concussions, soft tissue damage, or whiplash, may not show up until days or weeks later. If you accept a quick settlement and later realize you’re injured, you may not be able to reopen your claim. A quick call with an attorney can help you decide whether to move forward alone or proceed with legal help.
Clear Liability & Fair Settlement Offer
If the other driver’s insurance accepts full responsibility and the settlement offer clearly covers all medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, you may not need legal representation.
The challenge is knowing whether the settlement is truly fair. Insurance companies are skilled at making offers that sound reasonable but don’t account for long-term needs like follow-up care or reduced earning potential. An attorney can review the offer to confirm it’s adequate.
When to Reconsider
Even in “simple” cases, there are red flags that should make you think twice about handling the claim on your own:
- The insurance company is taking too long to respond
- You’re pressured to sign paperwork quickly
- You’re unsure whether your injuries could cause long-term problems
- You feel like the settlement doesn’t cover everything
In these cases, getting legal advice ensures you don’t unintentionally give up your rights or leave money on the table.
Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
Even if you’re unsure whether you need one, understanding the benefits of hiring a lawyer after a crash can help you decide.
Maximize Your Settlement
Insurance companies are not on your side. They’re focused on minimizing payouts. Attorneys level the playing field and often secure much higher compensation than individuals receive on their own.
Handle the Insurance Companies for You
Talking with insurance adjusters can be stressful and frustrating. Your lawyer takes over communication, preventing missteps that could harm your case.
Focus on Healing While Your Lawyer Builds Your Case
After an accident, your priority should be recovery, not paperwork and deadlines. Attorneys manage the details so you can concentrate on your health and your family.
Common Questions About Getting a Lawyer After a Car Accident
Is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident?
Yes, especially if you’ve been injured, liability is unclear, or the insurance company isn’t offering a fair settlement. A lawyer helps ensure you’re fully compensated for medical costs, lost wages, and long-term damages.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
Most personal injury lawyers, including Simon Law, work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing up front, and your attorney only gets paid if you win your case.
What if the accident was partly my fault?
You may still be entitled to compensation, even if you share some fault. Missouri and Illinois both follow comparative negligence rules, which allow you to recover damages reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. In Illinois, the statute of limitations is usually two years. Acting quickly is best to preserve evidence and strengthen your case.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer at Simon Law Today
If you’ve been in a car crash, don’t leave your future in the hands of insurance companies. The experienced attorneys at Simon Law have helped countless accident victims across Missouri and Illinois recover the compensation they deserve.
We offer free, no-obligation consultations, so you can understand your options before making any decisions.
Contact Simon Law today to speak with a car accident attorney and start protecting your rights.
