Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Albuquerque, NM?
If you are an Albuquerque resident, you may not be surprised to learn that the city is number two on the most dangerous cities for drivers in the US. Accident analysis has shown that just 24 roads are responsible for 41% of all accidents, with Friday the most dangerous day to be driving in Albuquerque.
After being involved in an accident, you may have injuries that require medical treatment or your vehicle may be badly damaged. If this has happened to you, one of the first questions that may arise is whether you need to hire a lawyer. There are several factors to consider when deciding if you need legal representation after a car accident in Albuquerque.
Assess Your Injuries
One of the main reasons to hire a lawyer after an accident is if you have suffered significant injuries. While minor whiplash or bruises can often be handled without an attorney, more serious injuries like broken bones, concussions, or back/neck injuries typically warrant the help of a lawyer. There are 869k traffic-related spinal injuries every year, including 2,800 spinal cord injuries. The more severe your injuries, the higher your potential damages. A qualified lawyer can help ensure you receive full and fair compensation for both economic and non-economic damages related to the accident and injuries.
Determine Liability in a Car Accident
In order to receive compensation, you must be able to prove the other driver was at fault for the accident. A lawyer can perform a thorough investigation into the accident to establish liability. This may include obtaining police reports, interviewing witnesses, examining skid marks, and more. If liability is unclear or disputed, having a lawyer strengthen your case can be key. Contact a car accident attorney because they know what evidence is needed to prove fault and negotiate the best settlement.
Navigate the Claims Process
Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be complicated, confusing, and frustrating. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or get you to accept an unfair settlement. An experienced auto accident lawyer has handled countless claims and negotiations. They know what settlement you deserve and how to effectively negotiate with insurers to maximize your payout. Having legal guidance can take much of the stress out of the claims process.
Avoid Costly Mistakes
After a traumatic accident, it can be easy to make missteps that negatively impact your ability to recover damages. You may unintentionally admit fault, accept an early settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries/losses, or miss important deadlines. An attorney will advise you on your rights and ensure you avoid common mistakes that could weaken your claim. Letting a lawyer handle communications and negotiations can be your best bet for obtaining full compensation.
Hiring a qualified personal injury attorney is likely your best path for maximizing compensation after an accident. An experienced lawyer will protect your rights, build leverage for a top settlement, and reduce the burden of handling your claim yourself.
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