If you have been involved in a minor car accident, you may wonder whether hiring a lawyer is necessary. While legal action may seem like an overreaction, even minor collisions can result in unexpected damages and complications. If you can prove that another person was negligent in causing an accident, they can be held liable for your losses. However, navigating the claims process alone can be challenging. As such, it’s imperative to consider retaining the legal services of an experienced Prince George’s County Auto Accident Lawyer who can help you fight for the full and fair compensation to which you may be entitled. Please continue reading to learn how you can benefit from expert legal guidance. 

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

When you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation for your damages. Many argue that it’s unnecessary to retain a lawyer for a minor car accident. However, forgoing legal representation can have a drastic impact on your ability to receive the just compensation you deserve.

A lawyer will evaluate your case and investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine fault. They will gather evidence and review the facts at hand, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements to determine the strength and value of your claim. They will calculate your damages and examine the full extent of your damages.

Once they have assessed your circumstances, they will use their skills and experience to negotiate with the insurance company. Often, victims who try to negotiate on their own are tricked by leading questions and give the insurance company the ammo they need to minimize or deny the claim. In addition, they may convince you to accept a lowball settlement. A lawyer can ensure the insurance company doesn’t take advantage of the fact that you are unfamiliar with the claims process or how much your claim is truly worth. If you cannot reach a fair settlement, a lawyer can represent your interests and protect your rights in court during a trial.

Should I Retain a Lawyer if I’m Involved in a Minor Car Accident?

Regardless of whether you have been involved in a minor fender-bender or a major collision, the aftermath can be devastating. While an accident may initially seem minor, it may be more serious than you realize. In many cases, you are unaware of the full extent of property damage to your vehicle. It may be much more severe than just cosmetic damage, and as a result, you could wind up paying out of pocket for significant mechanical repairs.

Furthermore, you may feel fine in the immediate aftermath of the accident. However, even if an injury seems minor, it should be examined by a medical professional as certain injuries are not immediately clear but could get worse over time if left untreated. It’s important to keep in mind that Maryland is a contributory negligence state. This means that even if you are found just 1% at fault for an accident, you will face the absolute bar of recovery. If you try to navigate the claims process without legal representation, they will have difficulty proving that you are not at fault.

At Timian & Fawcett, LLC, we are prepared to guide you through these challenging times and fight for the justice you deserve. Connect with our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you.