This is the first and most important question that most people will ask when calling our personal injury attorney offices in St. Petersburg. We welcome the question because those who call at least took the initiative to ask if they need a car accident attorney. Many people continue to suffer physically, emotionally, and financially without ever taking the time to pick up the phone. While we can’t offer to cure your physical or emotional ailments, there is a chance that we can help you get compensation for financial damages suffered.
The answer to the question of needing a car accident attorney is not exactly straightforward because every situation is different. So, until you have spoken to a lawyer about the specifics, it will be hard to say for sure if it would be beneficial to file a suit. However, as a general rule, there are three different types of car accident situations that could wind up in court and result in financial damages being paid.
Significant Property Damage Cases
Many of those who are involved in situations like this will be happy to hear that they can get legal assistance from a car accident attorney to collect financial compensation for losses suffered, and that this will most likely take place outside the courtroom. As long as it can be proven that someone else was negligent and liable for the damages done, an attorney should be able to help you assemble a case against that individual or entity to ensure you receive the monies needed to cover the cost of the property damage. So, if you were in a car accident that resulted in your vehicle being significantly damaged, resulted in the destruction of valuable items within the vehicle, or that caused damage to your home or business, call a lawyer in Saint Petersburg today.
Minor Injury Cases
Obviously, an injury is going to be devastating to you, regardless of how severe others would consider it. But, for the sake of filing legal suits against the negligent party, it is important to consider how serious the court will perceive the injuries to be. Minor injuries are generally considered those that result in less than $1,000 in medical bills. Unfortunately, in many situations like this, there is little benefit to be had in filing a lawsuit. However, you can seek legal advice on how to best deal with the insurance adjusters so you get the compensation needed to cover those medical expenses.
Major Injury Cases
For those injuries that involve overnight hospital stays, ambulance rides, surgeries, prolonged physical therapy, or long term care requirements, it is wise to consult an attorney. Filing a lawsuit can result in your medical expenses being covered, as well as damages being paid for lost wages (past and future), lost quality of life, and other such considerations. It is important to choose an attorney that is both knowledgeable and experienced in car accident law. You may be able to receive a settlement outside the courtroom, but having that professional backing can help to ensure that the defense offers a realistic and fair settlement. If you do go to court, then you will need that knowledge behind you to help convince the judge and jury that you were wronged and deserve compensation. According to legal statistics, people armed with a personal injury attorney recover 350% more than those who go it alone.