Should I Consider Hiring a Lawyer After an Accident?
I was involved in an accident with a commercial pickup truck that made a left turn onto a road where I was traveling slowly. As I was preparing to turn right onto the road he should have stopped at (due to a stop sign), he executed a rolling stop during a severe snowstorm. This made it impossible for him to see that I couldn’t turn. I had no option but to continue straight, and unfortunately, I collided with the back fender of his truck. Although my impact was minimal due to my careful speed given the conditions, he drove off without issue, while my car sustained significant damage.
My vehicle, which was paid off and in excellent condition, is likely to be totaled according to my insurance company, who has also indicated that I would only receive 75% of its value. They believe it’s a clear-cut case of fault, but I’m left facing the consequences: I’ve lost my car, incurred towing fees, and had to book a hotel for the night after being stranded in a snowstorm, especially since I had just picked up my dog from a specialty vet two hours away.
I rely on my vehicle for my job, which involves home therapy visits, and I need a reliable SUV to navigate through challenging weather. To make matters worse, I’ve learned that the driver has two DWI convictions and has served a year in jail. I can’t help but feel frustrated—not only due to the financial burden I now face, but also considering the potential danger posed to myself and my small dog had I been traveling at a higher speed.
Given that I’m not physically injured but am experiencing significant financial hardship, should I hire a personal injury lawyer to help recover my losses? Any guidance or advice would be greatly appreciated.
It’s understandable that you’re feeling overwhelmed by this situation. Given the financial losses and the complications you’ve experienced, it could be beneficial to consult with a personal injury lawyer, even if you’re not physically injured. Here are a few reasons why hiring a lawyer might be a good idea:
Legal Expertise: Insurance claims can be complex, and a lawyer who specializes in personal injury can help navigate the process to ensure you get the compensation you deserve, including extra costs like the tow and hotel expenses.
Negotiation Skills: Lawyers are experienced negotiators and can advocate on your behalf to the insurance company, potentially increasing the amount you receive.
Understanding of Full Compensation: A lawyer can help identify all the potential costs you might claim, which you may not have considered, such as the loss of use of your vehicle, any additional expenses related to your dog’s vet care, and future transportation needs for your job.
Compensation for Pain and Suffering: Although you’re not physically hurt, some lawyers might argue for a compensation claim for the emotional distress and inconvenience caused by the accident.
Contingency Fees: Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This can make it more affordable if you’re concerned about immediate legal fees.
Before hiring a lawyer, it may also be worth reaching out to them for an initial consultation to discuss your case and understand what options are available to you. Take your time to research and find someone who has a good track record with cases like yours. Good luck, and I hope you find a resolution quickly!