I just got into an auto accident should i get a lawyer if I was injured?

Question

The reason I am asking is would I be able to negotiate with the Insurance company for a settlement on my own or should I hire an attorney to contact the insurance company for me? Any advice?

Answer 1

You can negotiate with the insurance company on your own. However, my own experience with auto accidents has shown me that they will lie and threaten in order to keep the settlement low. I would highly recommend getting an attorney to look out for you in this matter. The insurance companies have many lawyers who are looking for ways to take short change you. You should have one to make sure you are not taken advantage of or lied to about your rights.

Answer 2

If you have a severe injury that requires hospitalization/surgery, then definitely. If you just needed x-rays or something, then I would not. a friend of mine had two accidents one week apart. In both he was rear ended and lost consciousness. For the first one, he did not get an attorney, and he settled in three months for 6,000 more than the medical bills and fees. With the 2nd accident he was injured more severely, and actually lost feeling in his legs for several hours. He had been hit by an 18-wheeler driving too fast for the traffic conditions. They called him the first day and offered him 25,000 plus all medical expenses if he would leave an attorney out of the situation. He called one anyway from the television ads "We'll get you the money that you deserve!" Over one year and a ruined credit rating later he ended up settling for 10,000 less than they offered, and the lawyer took 40% off the top! Be sure you know what you are getting into and read the fine print on anything you sign.

Answer 3

Yes. They will take no c**p, so you don't have to deal with the insurer directly. The insurer will do their level best to s***w you.

Answer 4

You could hire a lawyer, if you want them to take at least a third (33%) of your money.

Otherwise, if you had relatively minor injuries you should be able to negotiate w/ the insurance company on your own.

You didn't say what happened in the accident, or what type of injuries you sustained, or treatment you recieved so I can only assume it was nothing serious and life threatning....

You should be fine on your own, especially for working in the insurance industry