Do I Need a Lawyer?
Yesterday, my wife was involved in an accident when a driver lost control and crossed the median, resulting in a T-bone collision with her vehicle. I’ve never encountered a situation like this before, so I’m uncertain about how to proceed. Here are some key details:
- An officer witnessed the accident and confirmed my wife is not at fault.
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company, based on my research, has a reputation for being difficult to work with and often doesn’t pay claims.
- My car, a new BMW 330i, is a total loss. The doors had to be cut off to rescue my wife.
- She was taken to a trauma center by ambulance.
- Four CT scans were performed; thankfully, there were no broken bones, but she received 15-20 staples in her arm due to an exposed elbow bone.
- The ER doctor has recommended ongoing care with an orthopedic specialist or sports medicine professional, as her injury may affect her arm’s mobility in the long term, though they need to wait for more healing before making definitive assessments.
- Following the collision, my wife was pushed across three lanes and did hit another vehicle. Is the initial driver responsible for this, or could my wife be liable?
- I have both auto and medical insurance.
Despite the severity of the situation, I feel fortunate it wasn’t worse. Given the circumstances surrounding my wife’s injury, I want to ensure I take the correct next steps.
Should I let my insurance handle this, or is it wise to consult a lawyer right away?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear about the accident, but I’m glad to hear your wife is okay despite her injuries. Given the circumstances, here are some thoughts to consider regarding whether to hire a lawyer:
Injury Complexity: Since your wife’s injury is serious and may require ongoing medical care, having a lawyer can help ensure that you get the compensation needed for current and future medical expenses, as well as pain and suffering.
Liability Issues: Since there is a potential for ambiguity about liability, especially because your wife hit another car after being hit, a lawyer can help clarify these points and advocate on your behalf.
Insurance Challenges: If the other insurance company is known for being difficult to work with, a lawyer can navigate those challenges and potentially speed up the claims process for you.
Documentation: A lawyer can help ensure that all necessary documentation is completed correctly and submitted on time, which can prevent issues later.
Negotiation Power: Lawyers have experience negotiating settlements and may be able to secure a better outcome than you could on your own.
Given the serious nature of the accident, it may be wise to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Many offer free consultations and can give you a better understanding of your options based on the specifics of your case. Protecting your wife’s rights and securing proper compensation should be a priority, especially with the potential long-term implications of her injury.
Take care and wish your wife a swift recovery.