Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Absolutely. In 2019, insurance companies earned more than $1.3 trillion in premium payments alone. These companies use highly-experienced insurance defense professionals to protect their profits. Attempting a successful car accident claim without a lawyer is very much not recommended.

 

A partnership with a Richmond car accident lawyer is the best way, and often the only way, to obtain fair compensation for your serious injuries. This compensation usually includes money for economic losses, such as medical bills, and noneconomic losses, such as pain and suffering. Additional punitive damages might be available as well, in some extreme cases.

 

Initial Fault Assessment

Emergency responders use evidence that’s immediately available at the scene to determine fault. A preliminary determination of fault often has little or nothing to do with liability for damages.

 

This issue is especially common in fatal accident claims. If the decedent does not give a statement to the reporting officer, the written report obviously only contains one side of the story. 

 

Eyewitness statements can be suspect as well. Officers don’t perform background checks on these people. So, a witness could very well be related to one of the people in the accident. Furthermore, some witnesses are legally incompetent, depending on their circumstance.

 

Even if sufficient physical evidence is available, an emergency first responder is not an accident reconstruction professional. First responders must simply do the best they can with the tools they have. Furthermore, emergency responders are not attorneys. They have little or no knowledge of legal doctrines such as last clear chance and sudden emergency. 

 

What to Look for in a Car Accident Attorney

A good lawyer will do more than review your case. They will come with an investigative mindset keen on analysis of fact and a dedication to obtaining what you need for recovery. In other words, when you hire an experienced personal injury attorney, you’re bringing an informed approach to your accident claim and, when necessary, a dynamic strategy fit for your case. 

 

Perhaps the most important factor to look for in a lawyer: how they value communication. Honesty and clarity can go a long way, especially when it comes to obtaining compensation for your losses. Your lawyer will be clear with you and guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you know what you need to move forward after an accident. 

 

Experienced Lawyers Ready to Help

Your car accident lawyer should properly evaluate your case and possess certain qualities. For a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney in Richmond, contact Geoff McDonald & Associates, P.C. Lawyers can connect victims with doctors, even if they have no insurance or money.