Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for a Car Accident?

How can a car accident attorney help?

An attorney for a car crash from Bachus & Schanker can provide invaluable assistance in several ways. First and foremost, we will work diligently to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. 

We have extensive knowledge of Colorado state laws pertaining to car accidents, insurance claims, and personal injury cases. This allows us to navigate the complex legal system skillfully while building a solid case on your behalf.

Additionally, our experienced car crash attorneys understand the tactics used by insurance companies to minimize or deny claims. We are skilled negotiators who will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive just compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Moreover, dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. Our compassionate attorneys take care of all the legal aspects so you can focus on healing and recovery. From gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to handling paperwork and negotiating with insurers, having a professional by your side provides peace of mind during this stressful time.

Do I need a car accident attorney?

There are several situations in which hiring a lawyer for a car accident is highly recommended:

• Severe injuries or long-term disabilities: These types of injuries in a car accident often lead to significant medical expenses, ongoing treatment needs, loss of income, and considerable pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation for these damages.
• Disputed liability: When there is a disagreement about who was at fault for the car accident, having an attorney on your side is essential
• Insurance company denial or lowball offers: Insurance companies are notorious for minimizing settlements or wrongfully denying claims altogether. An experienced car crash attorney’s expertise ensures you do not accept inadequate settlement offers.
• Time constraints: There are specific statutes of limitations within which you must file a lawsuit after a car accident. A car accident attorney ensures all necessary paperwork is filed within these time constraints.
• Complexity of legal proceedings:  Attorneys understand state and local personal injury laws along with settlement and court procedures

Why shouldn’t I negotiate my settlement without an attorney?

While it is possible to negotiate your settlement without an attorney, there are several reasons why it may not be in your best interest. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Knowledge and experience: Car accident attorneys have in-depth knowledge of personal injury laws and extensive experience handling similar cases. They understand the complexities of insurance policies, liability determinations, and how to evaluate the actual value of your claim. Without this expertise, you may underestimate the compensation you deserve or unknowingly accept a lowball settlement offer.
• Legal strategies and tactics: Insurance companies employ adjusters and lawyers who specialize in minimizing payouts on claims. They are skilled at using tactics such as shifting blame onto you, downplaying injuries, or undervaluing damages. A car crash lawyer understands these strategies and can effectively counter them on your behalf.
• Objectivity: Emotions can run high after a car accident when you are dealing with injuries or property damage. An attorney provides an objective perspective while representing your interests firmly and impartially during negotiations.
• Time and effort: Pursuing a fair settlement requires time-consuming tasks like obtaining medical records, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses or experts, preparing legal documents, and analyzing case precedents that apply to your situation. With an experienced attorney handling these responsibilities, you can focus on recovering from your injuries rather than navigating complex legal processes.
• Protecting your rights: Remember that insurance companies are motivated to protect their own financial interests, which may not align with yours. They may pressure you to accept a quick settlement far less than you deserve. An attorney will protect your rights, advocate for your best interests, and fight for fair compensation.

What are the qualities of the best car accident lawyers?

The best car accident lawyers possess several qualities that set them apart and make them highly effective in representing clients. Some essential qualities to look for include:

• Experience: A top-notch car accident lawyer’s experience allows them to navigate complex legal processes, anticipate potential challenges, and effectively strategize for optimal outcomes
• Expertise: A lawyer experienced in personal injury law and car accidents involving death or personal injuries ensures an in-depth understanding of relevant statutes, regulations, precedents, and effective legal strategies to pursue maximum compensation
• Strong communication skills: The best car accident attorneys excel at listening attentively to their client’s needs and concerns while being able to convey complex legal concepts to insurance companies or opposing parties
• Negotiation skills: Skilled attorneys understand the art of advocating for their clients during settlement discussions and mediation efforts with insurers or opposing lawyers involved in the case
• Trial experience: While many cases settle before going to trial, the best attorney for a car accident should be prepared to take your case to court if necessary. A skilled trial attorney will be undeterred to secure favorable jury verdicts on behalf of their clients.
• Empathy and compassion: Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be highly stressful and emotional. The best car accident lawyers provide support, guidance, and reassurance while demonstrating empathy and compassion and understanding the physical, emotional, and financial toll it has taken on their clients. 
• Proven results: Look for a lawyer or law firm that can provide evidence of past successes in handling car accident cases. This could include significant settlements obtained, favorable trial outcomes, wins in complex cases, customer reviews, testimonials, and professional recognition.
• Client focus: Outstanding attorneys prioritize their clients’ needs and interests above all else. They offer personalized attention, responsiveness, and accessibility so that you feel valued as they work toward achieving your desired outcome. 

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Calculating pain and suffering is a complex task involving placing a monetary value on the physical and emotional distress experienced by an accident victim. There is no set formula for calculating pain and suffering, but here are some common factors considered:

• Severity of injuries
• Cost of medical treatment
• Duration of recovery
• Impact on daily life
• Emotional distress/trauma
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment
• Loss of consortium

Get help from our Colorado car accident attorneys today

You don’t have to face the aftermath of a car accident alone. Get the help you need from our experienced Colorado car accident attorneys at Bachus & Schanker. We are here to advocate for your rights, ensure fair compensation, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Sources:

CRS 13-80-101. (2023).

CRS 42-4-1601. (2023).

What Kinds of Damages May I Claim for Car Accident Injuries? (2023).