Did you know that approximately 13 car accidents occur in the US every minute? Most accidents result from excessive speed, distracted driving, and alcohol. Many people have lasting emotional and physical effects that significantly impact their lives.
If you’ve been in an accident recently, you may be looking to hire a car accident lawyer. If you’re not confident with your decision, it helps to know what to expect.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to expect from your car accident lawyer in Baton Rouge, LA.
What to Expect From Your Car Accident Lawyer
Most car accident lawyers offer a free consultation. During this consultation, the lawyer will review the basics of your car accident. Once you decide to hire a car accident claim lawyer, they’ll take other steps that include:
Explain Your Rights
Many people aren’t familiar with personal injury laws in their state. For example, Louisiana is a tort/fault state, meaning the driver who causes the accident will use their insurance to pay for the other driver’s expenses.
However, medical coverage will not pay out until the fault is determined. This means you’ll have to wait longer to get reimbursed.
Additionally, Louisiana has a one-year statute of limitations after a car accident, meaning you only have a year after the car accident to sue the other driver.
Investigates the Accident
It’s essential to realize a lot goes into investigating a car accident. Once you hire a lawyer for your car accident, they will take steps like:
- Gather evidence from the scene
- Interview witnesses and get statements
- Obtain the police report
- Request copies of your medical records
- Work with experts to reconstruct the accident
Documents Your Damages
Your car accident lawyer will also work to document all the damages you’ve incurred from the accident, such as:
- Current medical expenses
- Costs of therapy and medications
- Physical pain and suffering
- Loss of employment income and other benefits
- Mental and emotional stress
- How your overall quality of life has been affected
Remember, injuries to your spine or whiplash injuries can take a significant time to heal and also can impact your ability to work in the future.
Negotiates a Reasonable Settlement
Car accident lawyers will also help to negotiate a fair settlement. Remember, insurance companies aim to reduce their costs wherever they can, so they will often try to encourage you to accept a lower settlement offer.
Your car accident lawyer understands how to increase your chances of getting the best settlement possible. They’re also experienced in dealing with insurance companies and know precisely what to say.
Represents You During the Court Process
Most car accident cases settle out of court. However, there are times when you may need to go to court to get a fair settlement.
This usually occurs when an insurance company refuses to negotiate or if both parties claim the other is at fault. Also, some cases are more involved due to the severity of injuries.
Your attorney may need to collect additional evidence to prove fault or pain and suffering in these cases.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Baton Rouge, LA Today
Now that you know what to expect from your car accident lawyer, you’ll be more confident with your decision.
If you’re searching Google for a “car accident lawyer near me,” you won’t need to look any further than Wright & Gray for all your legal needs. We understand how important it is to get fair compensation for your recovery process and will work to ensure you get the settlement you deserve.
We look forward to helping you, so make sure you contact us today to schedule a free consultation.