You were injured in an unfortunate car accident that happened because of someone’s negligence. Indiana is an at-fault state, so you can file an insurance claim with the at-fault party’s insurer, seeking compensation for your damages. However, things are likely to be that simple. Hiring a car accident lawyer Fort Wayne is important, especially when circumstances surrounding an accident are complicated. In this post, we are discussing circumstances when hiring an attorney is an absolute must.
- If you have suffered serious injuries and extensive losses
The immediate impact of a car accident may not be apparent. This is often why car accident attorneys wait to decide on filing an insurance claim. If your injuries are severe, you may need months of medical care and treatments, and bills will pile up in no time. Many injuries can cause permanent or temporary disabilities, which may impact your ability to earn and pay for your expenses. A lawyer can guide on your claim after a car accident, so that you don’t miss out on the settlement you deserve.
- If you were partly at fault
Indiana follows the “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means if you were partly at fault, you can still ask compensation from the other driver. However, the eventual settlement will be lower, as the awarded compensation will be reduced by percentage of your fault. Insurance companies often rely such circumstances to deny or delay claims. You need a car accident lawyer on your side, so that your settlement is fair. In many cases of car accidents and crashes, the fault may not be clear, and your lawyer will investigate to establish fault and liability.
- When your claim has been denied
If you filed an insurance claim that has been denied, you need to call an attorney as soon as possible. By the time your claim is evaluated and denied, you have already lost valuable time. The statute of limitations in Indiana allows only two years, from the date of accident, to file personal injury lawsuits against the at-fault party. Let an accident lawyer take over and fight it out. If needed, the lawyer can go to court to maximize the settlement.
Hiring an accident lawyer in Fort Wayne doesn’t have to be hard. Just ask around or check online for best-rated attorneys in your area. Meet an attorney in person, to know what your claim is worth, and if you have a valid case in the first place.