Had A Car Accident - Do You Need A Car Accident Lawyer?

By Rick Crosby

A car accident isn't just a physical trauma - it can be a huge financial and legal burden as well, especially if you don't have knowledgeable legal help in your time of need. Whether the car accident was your fault or not, it's a good idea to get in touch with someone who can help you through the difficult and often confusing time that follows an auto accident.

So, what is a car accident lawyer?

A car accident lawyer is an attorney that helps to level the legal playing field after a car accident by informing you of your rights and responsibilities, and providing information on personal injury law and accident claims. Some circumstances surrounding a car accident require that a lawyer be involved, simply because of the complexity of dealing with the issue.

For instance, if you or anyone in your car was injured in the car accident, particularly if there is a permanent injury or an injury that results in lost income from work or lost time at school, a lawyer can help to recover some of these damages by filing a claim against the party responsible for the injuries.

The help of a lawyer should also be sought after a car accident if:

�The car accident has resulted in an injury, particularly a serious injury such as broken bones or any other injury that will require hospitalization.

�There has been a death resulting from the car accident.

�The official police report appears to not accurately represent the car accident and its circumstances - particularly if the report puts you at fault.

�The car accident occurred in a construction area.

�The car accident involved bystanders or pedestrians.

�Your liability insurance will not cover the entirety of the damages.

�You have no insurance.

�Your insurance company brings it their own lawyer. If this happens, immediate legal help should be found. It's an emergency.

But an injury isn't the only reason to contact a lawyer after a car accident. While a car accident such as a fender bender that doesn't result in much damage probably doesn't require a lawyer, a more complicated accident with more damage may require the help of a lawyer to navigate the murky waters of insurance claims, police reports, and liability.

In order to help your case, it is important that you not wait to seek the help of a lawyer and file a claim. Waiting too long to begin legal action might keep you from receiving the compensation that you deserve. Statutes of Limitation vary from state to state, and can limit the amount of money that you can recover, or eliminate it completely, whether you have the help of a lawyer or not.

Be prepared when you meet with a lawyer. Take any necessary documents, insurance information - both your own and that of the other party. Take the names of any witnesses there may have been, any photographic evidence taken at the scene, and a copy of the official police report. Any information can help your lawyer to help you, so be sure to prepare your documents before meeting with your lawyer for the first time.

This can be a profoundly difficult time for you and your family. With lost income and physical pain, there is no need to compound the suffering of you or your loved ones by having to go through a trying time alone. It's important to know when to ask for help, and particularly when to seek the help of a trained professional, such as a car accident lawyer. Look for help from a trusted source.

When you find yourself in need, call or visit http://www.1800askgary.com for the kind of support that you need and deserve.

Rick Crosby is the webmaster and SEM for consultant for http://www.1800askgary.com To contact Rick Crosby directly, please call 727-490-5739.