What if the accident was not my fault and that fact was clearly documented in the police report, do I need a lawyer to resolve my claim with the insurance company?
Maybe, but lets look at the question in more detail.
You may not need an attorney if the only harm caused was the damage to your vehicle and the insurance company agrees to:
1. Pay to have your vehicle repaired at a mechanic or body shop of your choice; and
2. Pay the reduced value of your vehicle because the market value of a vehicle that has been involved in an accident is worth less than it was before the accident.
But if you have been injured in the accident, then you definitely need an attorney to evaluate your damages and make sure you are treated fairly by the insurance company.
This, among other things, may involve:
1. Investigating the accident;
2. Interviewing the witnesses;
3. Recommending physicians;
4. Negotiating a reduction of your medical bills;
5. Negotiating a settlement of your claim with the insurance company;
6. Litigating against the insurance company’s attorneys on your behalf.
You should at least discuss your accident claim with an attorney, soon after the accident, to determine whether you need their services or whether your accident claim can be resolved without their assistance.
