What Kind of Lawyer Do I Need If I Am at Fault in a Car Accident?
Do I Need a Lawyer If I Cause a Car Accident?
If you cause a car accident, it is best to consult a lawyer. This is due to the fact that insurers are not always eager to settle cases fairly. In Pennsylvania, there is another issue associated with car accidents. The state is no-fault, which means both the at-fault party and the injured person go to their own insurance company to be compensated. However, there are situations where the compensation amount exceeds the insured’s policy. In this case, a lawsuit can be filed against the at-fault party.
What Can an Attorney Do Even if You Live in a No-Fault State?
The insurance company does not just hand over money to settle damages. Instead, they send out an adjuster to evaluate the accident and ensure that the insured really need the amount they are claiming. The adjuster will even review medical records to make sure the trauma the injured party suffers from is due to the accident and not a previous condition. The investigator also evaluates property damages and ensures repairs are not too costly.
In short, it is the adjuster’s job to keep the cost down. Insurance companies are in business to make money, not to parcel it out. This is where an attorney can help. They will show that the insurer is trying to cut costs and give their client less than the damages they deserve.
Why Does It Matter if the Client Wants to Settle Quickly?
It matters to an attorney because they are charged with protecting their client’s rights. When an insurer settles quickly, they rely on the injured party’s financial losses. For example, the client may not be able to go to work after the accident, and this alters the family’s income. Eventually, vacation time and sick days will run out, and they are unable to pay household bills. The insurer takes advantage of their situation and offers a low-ball settlement.
The insurer will demand that the client sign a waiver before the funds are turned over. This curtails any further action against the insurer in relation to the accident. The biggest problem here is that the injured party may experience additional medical issues that may require surgery. Despite the high cost of surgical intervention, once the waiver is signed, the money for the procedure must be paid by the injured party. Once the money is signed off on and accepted, the individual is on their own.
Your attorney is experienced in the way insurers work and will counsel you to wait. It’s true you have the final word, but at least you know what you are getting into.
The Attorney Will Stand By Your Side if the Accident Costs More Than the Insurance Coverage
The minimum limits of insurance policies in Pennsylvania are $15,000 for injury to one person, $30,000 per accident and $ 5,000 for property damage. Medical care can be expensive even for minor to moderate injuries, and the cost can exceed the minimum mandated by the state. Your no-fault insurance might run out before the bills do. When this happens, the injured party can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to recoup damages, and the at-fault driver will need to have legal representation.
Travis Law Firm
If you caused an accident with injuries, it is important to have the assistance of an experienced lawyer. Call the Travis Law Firm at (814) 277-2222 as soon as possible, and let us schedule a free case review. We’ll be there to negotiate on your behalf and protect your rights. You can also reach out to us online.