When you’ve been in a car crash, you’ll likely have a lot of questions about how to proceed. In particular, you might wonder if you need to hire an attorney or if you can manage the situation on your own.
It’s an important decision that’s ultimately based on several factors, including how bad the accident was, how complicated your claim is, and whether you can handle insurance negotiations. Learn more about how to tell when it’s time to hire a car accident lawyer in this guide.
Ohio Car Accident Laws
The state of Ohio follows an at-fault system for car accident cases. This means the driver who caused the crash will have to cover the costs of any damages. The system is straightforward in theory, but things can get complicated in a hurry, especially if there’s a disagreement about who’s responsible or if several people are involved.
Ohio’s comparative negligence law can make things even more confusing. The law states that if you’re found to be partially liable for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault and your damages were $10,000, you’ll only get $8,000.
It’s also worth noting that the state has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident. The clock usually starts ticking from the day of the accident. However, depending on your situation, there may be other deadlines that you need to meet. Missing these dates could result in your case being thrown out.
When You Might Not Need A Lawyer
With that in mind, you can sometimes get away with not hiring an attorney. Minor accidents with no injuries and minimal vehicle damage can often be settled through the insurance claims process. Small fender-benders and low-speed collisions tend to fall into this category.
You also might not need a lawyer if neither party is contesting liability for the crash. If both parties can agree on that point and the costs for damages, insurance companies are more likely to cooperate and less likely to undervalue your claim. Even so, it’s a good idea to at least talk to an attorney to make sure you’re not overlooking any important details.
When Hiring A Lawyer Is Necessary
Not all car accidents are minor. In these more serious cases, hiring a lawyer is the best way to protect yourself.
Serious Injuries Or Fatalities
If the crash caused serious injuries or fatalities, the stakes are much higher. Hospital bills, lost wages, and long-term rehab costs add up quickly. A personal injury attorney will be able to help you figure out the full extent of the damages to make sure you get adequate compensation for immediate and future expenses related to your recovery.
Disputed Liability
It’s not always obvious why an accident happened. The other driver could try to blame you, or several people might share responsibility. If there’s any doubt about who or what caused the crash, you’ll need a lawyer to look deeper into your situation. They’ll collect any relevant evidence and build a strong case in your favor. Without one, it’ll be tough to prove fault.
Insurance Companies Are Playing Hardball
Insurance adjusters work for the interests of their company and are out to make money. They’re notorious for lowballing the amount they pay out in claims. It’s also not uncommon for them to blame the victims for causing the accident so that they don’t have to pay anything at all.
If you feel like insurance is undervaluing your claim, downplaying your injuries, or acting in bad faith, you’ll want to talk to a lawyer. They’ll be able to handle negotiations for you and make sure you’re not being taken advantage of.
You’re Being Sued
There’s no guarantee the other person or people involved in the crash won’t try to sue you, even if you feel you weren’t responsible. When you’re facing a lawsuit, you should contact a car accident lawyer immediately. They’ll represent you in court, help you understand your options, and fight to protect your assets from being taken as part of a settlement.
Kyle R. Wright is a respected attorney at Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers and has dedicated his career to helping injured clients in Sandusky and throughout Ohio. Their firm has a proven history of recovering hundreds of millions for their clients. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
