Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from mild to catastrophic. The severity of the injury largely depends on factors such as the speed of the crash, the point of impact and the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Here are some of the most common types of car accident injuries.
 

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe consequences of car accidents. These injuries can lead to partial or total paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage. Victims may experience life-long physical limitations, requiring ongoing medical care, therapy and home modifications.
 

Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result from a blow to the head during a car accident. Even minor head trauma can lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments. Symptoms of TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, life-threatening brain injuries that require immediate medical attention.
 

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones are another common result of car accidents, especially in high-impact collisions. Victims may suffer fractures to their limbs, ribs, pelvis or skull. Depending on the severity, these injuries may require surgery, long-term rehabilitation or, in the worst cases, result in permanent disability.
 

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jolted forward and backward during a collision, damaging the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Whiplash is a common injury in rear-end crashes and can result in long-term pain, stiffness and mobility issues.
 

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. These injuries often aren’t visible but can be just as serious, if not more so, than external injuries like cuts or broken bones.
 

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains and bruises, are common in car accidents. Though they may not be as immediately serious as broken bones or head trauma, they can cause significant pain and limit movement, leading to long recovery times.

Car accidents occur for a variety of reasons, many of which can be avoided with proper attention and care. The most common causes of car accidents include:

• Tailgating and road rage
• Street racing
• Impaired driving (alcohol and drugs)
• Driver fatigue
• Teenage drivers
• Weather and road conditions
• Animal crossings and potholes

 
Car accidents can be life-altering events, even when you’ve done everything in your power to drive safely. If you find yourself in this situation, contacting a car accident law firm for help can make a significant difference as you work toward a fair settlement.

When it comes to car accident claims, understanding whether your state follows an at-fault or no-fault system is important.
 

How Can You Tell Who Is At Fault?

In an at-fault state, the driver responsible for causing the accident is held financially liable for damages. Insurance claims are typically filed with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

In a no-fault state, each driver’s insurance company pays for their own damages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, in both systems, if your injuries are severe enough, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through a lawsuit.
 

Can You Win if the Accident Was Partly Your Fault?

In some states, you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. This is typically determined through comparative negligence laws, which reduce the compensation based on your level of fault.
 
If you do not know your state’s laws, contact an auto accident law firm for more information.

Every state has a statute of limitations for filing car accident lawsuits, typically ranging from two to three years. If you don’t file a lawsuit within this time frame, you lose the right to take legal action and pursue compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. It’s important to understand that the clock starts ticking as soon as the accident happens or when you first discover your injuries.
 
There can be exceptions to the general statute of limitations, like cases involving minors, government entities or injuries that show up later. It’s a good idea to act quickly after a car accident so you don’t miss any deadlines. Talking to a car accident lawyer soon after can ensure you don’t lose your chance to file a claim.

On average, settlements may take anywhere from a few months to over a year, especially if the case involves serious injuries or liability disputes. The timeline for settling a car accident claim varies depending on how complex the case is and whether the insurance company is willing to settle.
 
If the case needs to go to court, that timeline can be extended significantly. Court cases typically take longer because of the time required to gather evidence, prepare for trial and potentially go through the litigation process. In general, a car accident case that goes to trial could take anywhere from one year to several years to reach a final resolution.

The value of your claim depends on several factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and how severe your injuries are. A car injury lawyer can help assess the true value of your case and fight to maximize your settlement.

Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Typically, their fee is a percentage of the settlement or award you receive, which allows you to pursue legal action without paying upfront costs.
 
A contingency fee basis is a risk-free way for you to pursue your claim and ensure you have an experienced professional advocating for your best interests. For many people, the peace of mind and access to quality legal representation outweigh the fee they pay when they win.

Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers, but these are typically much lower than what you may be entitled to. A car accident lawyer can help you evaluate these offers and negotiate for a higher payout.
 

Is Your Insurer Acting in Good Faith?

Signs that your insurance company is not acting in good faith include delaying payments, undervaluing your claim, offering settlements far lower than what is fair or failing to communicate or provide necessary information in a timely manner.
 
Insurance companies are obligated to handle your claim fairly and promptly. If they are not doing so, it may be in your best interest to consult with an experienced auto accident lawyer.

While most car accident cases are settled outside of court, there are situations where you may need to take your case to trial. If a settlement cannot be reached or if the responsible party refuses to offer a fair settlement, a lawyer will help you prepare for trial.
 
Your auto accident attorneys will represent you in front of a judge and jury, presenting the facts of your case and advocating for you. While the thought of going to trial can be daunting, having skilled legal representation by your side can make all the difference in securing a fair outcome.