Truth be told, no one likes the thought of getting into an accident. But unfortunately, accidents happen all the time. And even if it was your fault, hiring a lawyer is still critical. If you’re in such a predicament, go to Hale Law for a car accident attorney.
If you’re unsure whether or not you need a lawyer, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and speak with one. They can assess your case and let you know if you have a good chance of winning or if it’s worth pursuing. Here are a few elements to consider if you’re involved in a mishap.
The Do’s and Don’ts
After an accident, it’s crucial to stay at the scene. Leaving could worsen your situation, even if you’re not at fault. For example, you could face a criminal charge.
It’s always best to call the police and let them handle the situation. Explain what happened, and give them any information they need. In most cases, the police will be able to sort everything out.
Also, it can be tempting to take responsibility for the collision by admitting fault. However, this can be a mistake. Revealing fault can jeopardize your insurance claim and put you at risk of being sued. Instead, it’s best to wait until the police have had a chance to investigate the accident and speak to witnesses.
The police can then determine who was at fault and take appropriate action upon establishing the facts. In the meantime, it’s also essential to remain calm and avoid saying anything that could be used against you later on. Taking these precautions can protect you from making a costly mistake.
Understand your insurance Options
One of the first things you’ll need to do is figure out your insurance options. Every state has different laws when it comes to car insurance, so it’s prudent to understand your options.
An accident attorney can help you assess your state’s options and ensure you’re getting the coverage you need. In some cases, you may get additional coverage through your insurance company.
However, in other cases, you may need to file a lawsuit with the help of an attorney to get the compensation you deserve. No matter your situation, an experienced accident attorney can help you get the best possible outcome.
No-fault Law
No one wants to cause an accident. But even the most careful drivers can make mistakes. If you live in a state with no-fault insurance laws, your insurance policy will cover your medical expenses and lost wages after an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
This can be a great relief if you face mounting medical bills and time away from work. No fault insurance can also help to protect your assets if you’re sued after an accident. So even if you cause an accident, no-fault insurance can provide some financial protection.
Fortunately, Florida is a “no-fault” state, implying that car accident victims can recover compensation from their insurer regardless of who was at fault for causing the crash. This is beneficial because it allows you to avoid the time-consuming and often contentious process of defending a personal injury lawsuit- if you’re at fault.
Fault-based Law
In a fault-based state, the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. This can have a significant impact if you’re involved in an accident. If you’re in a fault-based state, the other driver can file a claim for compensation with your insurer. So, if you’re ever involved in an out-of-state accident, check the kind of system the state uses so you know what to expect.
Why Hiring a Lawyer Makes Sense
Hiring a lawyer is still the best action, even if an accident was your fault. You deserve to have someone in your corner who will fight for you and protect your rights, especially if the other driver files a personal injury lawsuit against you.
Similarly, insurance companies will likely try to lowball you on your settlement. After all, they’re in the business of making money, not paying out claims. A lawyer can help you get the full amount you’re entitled to in Florida.
And if the accident resulted in injuries, you’ll need someone on your side who knows how to deal with medical bills and insurance companies. Getting the treatment you need shouldn’t be a fight.
All things considered, most people would be keen to avoid the hassle of filing a lawsuit after an accident. And if you’re facing legal action, an experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system and defend you. That way, you can hopefully get over the unpleasant situation.
