February 27, 2014

After an Auto Accident Consult with a Lawyer to Ensure a Fair Settlement

There are numerous tasks you need to take care of after being involved in an auto accident. If the accident was not your fault, you normally have to work with both your insurance company and the other party’s company. Attempting to reach a settlement for minor injuries may not seem difficult, and the amount they propose might seem fair. However, remember insurance companies want to settle claims for the least amount possible. How do you know if you are getting a fair offer? You need to consult with an accident lawyer in your area.

An auto accident lawyer is able to review the details about your case, determine the maximum monetary amount you can be entitled to receive, and work as your representative to ensure your legal rights are protected and the settlement is fair. Your attorney will know what details are critical to the outcome of your claim. In certain cases, there may be situations where you might be held partially to blame, which could hurt your ability to obtain a settlement.

Do I Still Have a Case if the Police Report States I Was Partially at Fault?

Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, it does not necessarily mean you do not have a case. Upon careful case evaluation and review, there could be still grounds for bringing a suit against the other party. In these situations, the maximum amount of your case is reduced by the percentage of your fault. For instance, if it is determined you were 25 percent at fault, you can only file for 75 percent of the total amount. In other words, if your attorney determines your case is potentially worth $100,000, but you were 25 percent at fault, they would only be able to seek a maximum of $75,000 from the other party.