Minor car accidents are a major inconvenience for everyone involved. This may result in victims not seeking medical help. However, even if you feel no immediate pain or see visible damage, a minor accident can still cause significant injuries.
Consulting a lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and that you are not left dealing with unexpected costs or complications down the road
At Galloway Jefcoat, our experienced Lafayette car accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the complex legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Request a FREE consultation today to get started.
Galloway Jefcoat. Turning wrong into right: 337-984-8020
When Should I Consider Hiring a Lafayette Injury Lawyer?
Minor car accidents may seem insignificant, but there are times when bringing in a lawyer is a smart choice. A good time to think about consulting a car accident lawyer after a minor collision is if you encounter the following scenarios:
- Serious Injuries: Even minor crashes can result in serious injuries. If your injuries require ongoing treatment, such as physical therapy or medical procedures, it is wise to consult an injury lawyer. They can help ensure your current and future medical costs and other related damages are factored into your claim. Tracking these costs from day one provides evidence that can help to link your damages to the collision that caused them.
- Disputed Fault: If there is disagreement about who caused the accident, a lawyer can step in with evidence and dispute any arguments against you. Establishing liability is crucial for securing the compensation you deserve.
- Inadequate Insurance Coverage: If your damages exceed the available coverage of the at-fault party’s insurance policy, a lawyer can explore other avenues for recovery.
- Communication Challenges: Dealing with insurance adjusters alone could make you vulnerable to lowball settlement offers. A lawyer can manage these conversations, ensuring your rights are upheld and the value of your claim is protected.
"I have used Galloway Jefcoat a few times and have always been very satisfied. Furthermore, all of the people who work there are very professional, nice, and courteous."
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer?
Having a car accident lawyer manage your case can offer several key advantages:
- Experience with Similar Cases: Attorneys have extensive knowledge of the laws and legal process. They can help you navigate a claim and manage the complexities of your case so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
- Negotiation Skills: Attorneys are skilled negotiators and understand how to deal with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement on your behalf.
- No Upfront Fees: Personal injury lawyers do not charge victims any upfront fees or costs to manage their case. They work on contingency, which means they only get paid if they secure compensation for you through a settlement or jury-awarded verdict on your behalf.
What Are the Potential Costs of Not Hiring a Lawyer?
Choosing not to contact a lawyer could impact the outcome of your case:
- Underestimating Your Claim: Victims may underestimate the actual costs of their injuries and other damages.
- Insurance Company Tactics: Insurers can pressure you into accepting low offers. Knowing when to negotiate or walk away can be challenging without legal knowledge.
- Missing Deadlines: Legal claims have strict timelines and missing these deadlines could hurt your case.
"As a client of Galloway Jefcoat for over two years I want to take a minute to say how much I appreciate the team handling my case."
Common Misconceptions About Hiring a Lawyer
Several preconceived assumptions may make people hesitant to hire a lawyer after a minor accident. These assumptions stem from being unfamiliar with the legal process.
"Great experience, from day 1 I felt like I finally had someone on my side and that feeling didn't leave me for 1 single moment."
Hiring a Lawyer is Too Expensive
People may often have concerns about the cost of hiring a lawyer. However, most injury law firms take cases on contingency, meaning they only get paid for their services if they win your case. This approach levels the legal playing field, making it possible for injured victims to get the legal representation they need.
You Cannot Sue if You Are Partially at Fault
It is often assumed that even a small amount of fault disqualifies someone from seeking compensation. However, Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, which means you can pursue damages even if you are partially responsible for the crash. However, it is important to note that any compensation you are awarded would be reduced by your assigned percentage of fault.
Insurance Companies Always Act in Your Best Interest
An insurance company’s primary goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line. Although it may seem that they have the victim’s best interest in mind, they are unlikely to make you an offer that accurately reflects the damages you sustained. Lawyers are skilled negotiators and know how to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
What Is Considered a Minor Crash?
Minor crashes may seem straightforward, but they can come with their own set of challenges. Typically, these accidents involve:
- Minor Property Damage: Mild damages, such as small dents or scratches, may not account for internal damage the vehicle could have sustained.
- Minor Injuries, If Any: Victims may feel fine after an accident or only have a few aches and pains. However, even minor crashes can cause serious injuries, such as a traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding. These injuries can quickly escalate if left untreated.
- Low-Speed Collisions: Low-impact accidents in slow traffic, parking lots, or low-speed school zones.
It is essential to understand when to get legal assistance because, despite their title, minor accidents can lead to complications. Insurance companies might dispute your claim or undervalue the damages you have experienced.
What Common Injuries Do Minor Accidents Cause?
Common injuries from minor car crashes may include:
- Whiplash: This neck injury occurs when your head is jolted violently forward and back, often causing pain that can linger for weeks.
- Bruises: Seatbelts can cause severe bruising and serious internal injuries when not worn correctly.
- Sprains: A sudden or awkward movement during an accident can strain ligaments and, in some situations, cause painful sprains that may require victims to take time off from work. This can result in lost wages from not being able to work.
- Cuts and Scrapes: Even minor collisions can cause cuts or deeper lacerations, especially if broken glass or other sharp objects are involved.
While these injuries may appear minor initially, they can lead to chronic pain, infection, or even scarring and disfigurement. Treatment of these injuries can result in extensive medical costs.
After any crash, it is important make your health a priority. Seeking immediate medical attention after a crash helps identify any underlying injuries that are not apparent right away.
Contact Galloway Jefcoat for Legal Help With Your Claim
If you were injured in a minor accident and are uncertain about your next steps, contact Galloway Jefcoat for legal guidance.
Our firm has a record of securing successful results, and we are committed to getting you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. If we represent you there are no upfront costs or fees. We only get paid if you do.
Experienced Lawyers. Proven Results: 337-984-8020
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