Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for a Car Accident?

Every year, millions of car accidents occur in the U.S., each bringing its own level of stress and financial burden. Whether the accident is minor or severe, it’s always an inconvenient and costly experience. In the aftermath, you might find yourself navigating complex insurance negotiations and facing significant expenses, including car damage, automobile rental charges, lost wages, and medical bills. 

In these situations, you may wonder: is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident? The answer often depends on the specifics of the accident, but seeking a professional legal opinion is always a smart move. Below, our experienced Shreveport car accident lawyers explain more on when you should and shouldn’t get a lawyer for your car accident case.

Is it Worth Hiring an Attorney for a Car Accident?

One of the top questions that many car accident victims have is whether or not it’s worth it to seek legal representation after their wreck. Ultimately, the answer to this question boils down to several factors, including:

• The severity of the accident and injuries.
• The percentage of the other driver's negligence.
• The complexity of the legal issues involved.
• The willingness of the insurance company to offer a fair settlement.
• The extent of your damages.
• The presence of permanent injuries or disabilities.

We understand you need clarity before making this important decision. That’s why the Shreveport car accident lawyers at Rice & Kendig offer free initial consultations so that we can inform potential clients about whether or not it’s worth getting a lawyer for a car accident before they pursue the legal process any further.

How an Attorney Can Help You With a Car Accident Claim

Before we break down when you should or shouldn’t hire an attorney, let’s first review how an attorney can help you with a car accident injury claim. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complex and time-consuming legal process by investigating the accident, proving fault, collecting evidence, calculating damages, and much more.

Thoroughly Investigate the Accident

A crucial aspect of any car accident case is the investigation. Experienced car accident lawyers at Rice & Kendig will meticulously examine the accident scene, gather evidence, and consult with experts if necessary. This thorough investigation can help establish the facts of the case, which are vital in proving fault and securing fair compensation.

Establish Fault and Collect Evidence

Determining who is at fault in a car accident is not always straightforward. Your Shreveport car accident lawyer will gather evidence such as the initial police report, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to establish liability. Louisiana is an at-fault state that follows comparative negligence laws, which means that even if you are partially at fault, you may still be eligible to recover damages. Car accident lawyers will work to maximize your financial recovery from the at-fault driver and prove that you were not at fault for the accident.

Calculate and Document All Damages Suffered

Accurately calculating the full extent of your damages is crucial for ensuring you receive fair compensation. This includes medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. A car accident attorney will carefully document these losses based on medical records, vehicle damage, pay stubs, and more. Our attorneys will also work with experts to calculate the value of future medical costs and long-term impacts on your quality of life.

Communicate With the Negligent Driver and Insurance Companies

One of the most stressful aspects of dealing with a car accident claim is communicating with insurance adjusters and the other driver's insurance company. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and their adjusters may use tactics to undervalue or deny your claim. Your attorney will handle all communications with the other driver as well as insurance companies in order to protect your legal rights and advocate for your best interests.

Adhere to Louisiana’s Statute of Limitations

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim has historically been 1 year from the date of the accident or injury. However, a recent change to Louisiana personal injury statute of limitations now allows plaintiffs 2 years from the date of the accident or injury to file a claim, as long as their injury occurred after July 1, 2024. Plaintiffs who were injured before July 1, 2024 are still subject to the 1 year statute of limitations.

Failing to file within this period will result in the loss of your legal right to pursue compensation. A Shreveport car accident attorney will ensure that all legal procedures are followed promptly, preventing any legal consequences due to missed deadlines.

Negotiate a Fair Settlement

Negotiating with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they offer a settlement that is far less than what you deserve. Your car accident attorney will leverage their legal expertise and knowledge of the legal system to negotiate a settlement with the insurance adjuster that accurately reflects your losses. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they will be prepared to take your case to court to seek maximum compensation.

When You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

There are certain situations where hiring a car accident lawyer is not only advisable but crucial to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Understanding when to seek legal counsel can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here are a few scenarios that may require you to get a lawyer to protect your best interest.

You Suffer Injuries and Extensive Damages

If you’ve sustained any type of injury in a car crash – such as head injuries, neck or back injuries, soft tissue injuries, or broken bones – it’s important to seek medical attention and hire an attorney immediately. Physical injuries sustained in a car crash can result in significant medical bills, long-term treatment, and a substantial impact on your quality of life. A Shreveport car accident lawyer at Rice & Kendig can help ensure that you receive compensation for all current and future medical assistance, lost wages, and other related expenses.

There Are Multiple Parties Involved in the Claim

Accidents involving multiple vehicles or parties can significantly complicate the legal process. Determining fault and negotiating with multiple insurance providers requires a deep understanding of comparative negligence laws, insurance policy details, and legal procedures. An experienced car accident lawyer can handle these complexities, ensuring that each party's liability is fairly assessed and that you receive fair compensation from insurance claims or lawsuits.

Your Insurance Claim is Denied or You Receive a Low Settlement Offer

Insurance companies are in the business of making a profit, and they may deny your claim or offer a settlement that doesn’t cover your losses. If you find yourself in this situation, a Shreveport car accident attorney can challenge the insurance company's decision, negotiate a better offer, or take legal action if necessary.

You Lack Understanding of Legal Rights and Procedures

Most people aren't familiar with accident laws and insurance claim processes. Our car accident attorneys have the education and experience to handle complex legal claims while you focus on recovery. We'll explain your rights, guide you through the process, and ensure all deadlines are met.

You're Involved in a Commercial Vehicle Accident

Accidents involving company vehicles typically have large insurance policies and aggressive defense teams. These cases require experienced legal representation to counter their tactics and defense strategies. Commercial vehicle cases often involve federal regulations and corporate policies that add additional layers of complexity.

The Accident Involves Extreme Negligence

In cases involving drunk driving or extreme negligence, punitive damages may be available. These complex cases require experienced legal representation to prove the level of negligence necessary for punitive awards.

When You Shouldn’t Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

While hiring a car accident lawyer is beneficial in many cases, there are some instances where it may not be necessary.

You’re Not Injured and You Don’t Suffer Many Damages

In cases where the car accident is minor and you haven't sustained injuries that require medical treatment or you haven’t suffered significant property damage, handling the claim on your own may be feasible. These minimal costs can often be paid for through basic insurance coverage.

You Are At-Fault for the Car Accident

If you are 100% at fault for the car crash, then you shouldn’t file a claim with a personal injury lawyer. Being 100% at fault for a crash would make you the defendant in a claim, not the plaintiff, and personal injury attorneys always defend the plaintiff to ensure they receive fair compensation for their losses. 

However, if you share a percentage of fault with another driver, you may still have grounds to hire a car accident lawyer. In fact, Louisiana follows the Pure Comparative Negligence Law, which allows plaintiffs to seek damages up to their percentage of fault in the accident. For example, even if one driver is deemed 98% at fault for an accident, the other driver can still seek damages for their remaining 2% of fault.

The Insurance Company Offers You a Fair Settlement

Although this is very unlikely, if the insurance provider offers you a settlement that fully compensates you for your property damage and other economic damages, then hiring a personal injury lawyer might not be worth the cost. However, it's still advisable to consult with an attorney for a free consultation to ensure the settlement is indeed fair.

What to Do After a Car Accident: Important Steps to Take

The moments after a car accident, even if it’s minor, are stressful. While your heart's racing and adrenaline's pumping, it's vital to stay focused and take the right steps. Here's what you need to do to protect yourself.

• Safety First: Call 911 immediately. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Move your vehicle to a safe spot if possible and turn on those hazard lights. Remember, even if you feel fine, some injuries might not show up right away.
• Document the Scene: Your smartphone is your best tool here. Take plenty of photos of both vehicles, any visible damage, and the overall accident scene. These pictures could be worth their weight in gold when dealing with insurance later.
• Carefully Exchange Information: Get the other driver's name, contact details, insurance info, and license plate number. Keep conversation minimal and stick to the facts. Avoid apologizing or admitting fault — let the professionals handle that part.
• Get Official Records: Call the police and get an accident report filed. This creates an official record of what happened, which can be crucial later. Get the report number and responding officers' information.
• Consider Legal Help: Contact a car accident attorney for a consultation, especially if you're injured or the accident was serious. A car accident attorney can protect your rights, handle insurance communications, and help evaluate any settlement offers.
• Protect Your Rights: Don’t contact your insurance company without an attorney to ensure you don’t inadvertently give any recorded statements. Keep records of all accident-related expenses, including medical bills and repair costs.
  
• Medical Attention Matters: See a doctor, even if you think you're okay. Some injuries, like whiplash, can take days to show up. Plus, medical records create a clear link between the accident and any injuries.

The steps you take right after an accident can make a big difference in your recovery – both physical and financial. Stay calm, document everything, and don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

How to Find a Good Car Accident Lawyer in Shreveport, LA

Choosing the right auto accident lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here is our basic checklist for finding the right lawyer in Shreveport, LA.

Check How Long the Firm Has Been in Practice

Experience matters in personal injury cases. A law firm like Rice & Kendig, with decades of experience in handling car accident cases, will have extensive knowledge and skills that are necessary to navigate complex legal issues. Be sure to inquire about the firm’s history and the experience of its personal injury lawyers.

Check Law Firm Case Results

A good indicator of a law firm’s capability is its track record of successful case results. Look for a law firm with a history of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for their clients. This can give you confidence in their ability to achieve a favorable outcome in your case. 

At Rice & Kendig, we recover millions of dollars in settlements every year for our injured clients, ensuring that they are able to make full physical, emotional, and financial recoveries.

Check Online Reviews and Client Testimonials

Online reviews and client testimonials can provide insight into a law firm’s reputation and the experiences of past clients. Look for positive feedback regarding communication, case handling, and the results achieved. 

Rice & Kendig has a strong reputation in Shreveport for providing compassionate and effective legal representation to car accident victims, with more than 550 combined 5-star Google and Facebook reviews from previous clients.

Quick and Effective Communication

Communication is key in legal representation. You want an attorney who is responsive and keeps you informed about the progress of your case. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how the legal team communicates and whether they address your concerns promptly.

Free Consultations

At Rice & Kendig, we offer free consultations to discuss your case. This allows you to get a sense of the attorney’s approach and whether they are the right fit for your needs without any financial commitment. Use this opportunity to ask questions and gauge their expertise.

Call Shreveport Car Accident Lawyers at Rice & Kendig Today!

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Shreveport, LA, and are unsure whether to hire an attorney, contact car accident lawyers at Rice & Kendig for a free consultation. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to helping car accident victims recover fair compensation for their injuries and damages. We understand the legal system in Louisiana and are committed to fighting for your rights. 

Don’t navigate the legal process alone — call a car accident lawyer today at 318-222-2772 or file a contact form to ensure your legal rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

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