Car accidents happen to kill many people in France. More than 1.5 million people are injured in crashes each year. Depending on the person responsible for the accident, it may be necessary to hire a car accident lawyer specializing in car accidents.
When to call a lawyer for a car accident?
If you’re in a trivial car accident, chances are you won’t need a lawyer. An example of an insignificant accident is one where two vehicles collide with each other at very low speed in a parking lot.
The damage is then very minimal. No one is hurt. Sometimes there is no damage at all.
In this case, you can go through your insurance company and choose not to hire a lawyer. But there are cases when a car accident warrants the help of a lawyer:
Serious injuries. If you have suffered serious injuries, you will want to hire the services of a lawyer. These car accidents comprise broken bones, hospitalization, or injuries that are probable to be permanent.
The death. Car accidents which result in death should be dealt with by a lawyer. Whether you are a close survivor or the driver of the wrecked car, seek legal advice immediately.
Mistake. Accidents can and do happen, but when responsibility becomes an obvious problem, it’s time to seek legal advice.
Construction area. Accidents that happen in a construction area can be fatal. These accidents can even involve hitting a worker or committing offenses by the driver. Heavy fines and penalties are imposed for accidents in construction areas.
Police report. An inaccurate police report can have a lasting impact on your compensation claim. If the report accuses you and is not accurate, you will need a lawyer to help you and defend your case.
Lawyers are involved. If someone, including your insurer, hires a lawyer, you should immediately pick up the phone and find your own lawyer.
Other cases where you should consider using a lawyer
You also can pursue the advice of a decent personal injury lawyer if you are:
- The fault of the accident can be a problem
- You are not sure of your rights
- Confusion over your policy
- Stuck in negotiations with your insurer
- You are not sure if your insurer is in good faith
A car accident compensation claim should be made whether or not you choose to work with an injury lawyer. If your situation is complex, for example if you are trying to show lost wages, you will need legal advice. It might be problematic to prove lost wages as a salesperson, consultant, or business owner who doesn’t have a normal 9 am to 5 pm job.
If another party involved in the accident hires a lawyer, it is time to consult your own lawyer. In most cases, it is best to consult a lawyer before going to a claims adjuster.
