Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer After a Car Accident?

Whether you need a lawyer after a car accident depends on several factors, including the severity of the accident, the extent of damages and injuries, and the complexity of the case, but in most scenarios, the answer would be to at least speak with a lawyer before deciding.

If you were injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, then you should always at least speak to a lawyer, regardless of the severity of your accident. At Morgan & Morgan, we offer free case evaluations so that you can learn about your claim and your legal options to move forward. Learning about your eligibility to get compensated for your injuries requires no obligation or cost to you.

If you were involved in a minor fender-bender with no significant injuries or property damage, you may be able to handle the insurance claims process on your own. However, if the accident resulted in serious injuries, extensive property damage, or wrongful death, it's advisable to consult with a lawyer to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

If fault for the accident is disputed or if there are multiple parties involved, hiring a lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities of determining liability and pursuing compensation. A lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially if they're delaying or denying your claim, offering a low settlement, or engaging in bad faith practices. A lawyer can advocate for your rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Morgan & Morgan’s personal injury lawyers specialize in car accident cases and have a deep understanding of the relevant laws, regulations, and legal procedures. They can assess the merits of your case, advise you on your rights, and help you navigate the complex legal process.

Keep in mind that there may be a limited time frame, known as the statute of limitations, in which you can file a lawsuit for damages resulting from a car accident. If you're considering legal action, it's essential to consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure you don't miss any deadlines.

Ultimately, whether to hire a lawyer after a car accident is a personal decision based on your individual circumstances and comfort level with the legal process. If you're unsure whether you need legal representation, it's wise to schedule a consultation with a qualified attorney to discuss your options and get personalized advice based on your situation.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, it's important to take certain steps to ensure your safety, protect your interests, and gather the necessary information for insurance purposes. 

Make sure you’re safe

First and foremost, check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly.

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location out of the flow of traffic to avoid further accidents and injuries. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the accident scene.

Get all the important info

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Obtain their name, phone number, address, driver's license number, insurance company name, policy number, and vehicle information (make, model, year, license plate number).

Take photographs of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, any damage sustained, road conditions, traffic signs or signals, and any relevant landmarks. This documentation can serve as evidence later on.

Depending on the severity of the accident and local laws, you may be required to report the accident to law enforcement. Even if it's not required, it's advisable to contact the police to document the accident and obtain an official police report.

Document your account of the accident

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if it's a minor accident. Provide them with all the relevant details, including the other driver's information, the extent of damages, and any injuries sustained.

Write down your recollection of how the accident occurred while it's still fresh in your memory. Include details such as the time, date, location, weather conditions, and any contributing factors to the accident.

Any evidence you gather, even medical results from a subsequent hospital visit, can help to establish the story of your injury in court. Your lawyer can assist you in gathering this information, but the more you can acquire at the scene of the accident, the better. Some information, witness accounts, or even security footage from nearby cameras may not be available to you later on.

Contact Morgan & Morgan

If you're unsure how to proceed or if you've been injured in the accident, consider seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney who specializes in personal injury law. A Morgan & Morgan attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages.

You can contact Morgan & Morgan 24/7 to speak with our team about your case and to learn more about your legal options. Don’t hesitate to take action; the statute of limitations starts the clock the second you have an accident, so time is of the essence.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer for a Car Accident?

The cost of hiring a lawyer for a car accident can vary depending on several factors, including the lawyer's fee structure, the complexity of the case, and the extent of damages involved.

At Morgan & Morgan, you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. That’s right—the Fee Is Free™. You won’t have any upfront fees or out of pocket costs. This way justice can be accessible to all.

Morgan & Morgan has fought For the People for over 35 years and has recovered $20 billion for our clients. Our personal injury lawyers may be able to help your car accident case, too. Hiring one of our lawyers is easy, and you can get started today with a free case evaluation.