If you’re ever involved in a car accident, you’ll probably be expecting to have a long and complicated legal ordeal ahead of you. Of course, you can always attempt to settle with an insurance company on your own, but without proper legal help, you run the risk of only getting a small fraction of the compensation you’re entitled to.
So, when do you need to hire a car accident lawyer? In many cases, the answer is as soon as possible. Still, we at Niblock Law Firm have broken down just a few of the scenarios where having an experienced attorney on your side will be to your benefit after a Fayetteville car accident.
When Calculating Your Damages
Coming up with a clear number for the value of your case can be tough on your own. A car accident attorney can help you properly calculate the compensation you’re owed by considering both economic and non-economic factors. You may be able to pursue a wide variety of damages, but insurance companies will likely count on you not knowing everything you’re entitled to.
Damages in car accident claims are classified as either economic or non-economic. Economic damages are easily quantifiable and include things like your medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and can be harder to pursue. Common examples include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of companionship. The insurance company will likely try to downplay the impact your accident has had on your life, making it difficult to receive the non-economic damages you deserve. This is why it’s essential to have a lawyer review your case and help you fight for the true value of your claim.
When Dealing With Comparative Negligence
After a car accident, you may have to deal with the state’s comparative negligence laws. Arkansas operates under a modified comparative negligence rule. Under this law, if you’re found to be partially responsible for your accident, any compensation you’re entitled to receive may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
For example, if you incurred $100,000 worth of damages in an accident that was 10% your fault, you will likely only be able to claim $90,000 for your losses. Keep in mind that if you’re more than 50% at fault for the accident, you won’t be able to receive any compensation.
People often wonder who decides percentages of fault in comparative negligence. The fact is that only a judge or jury can legally assign comparative negligence. While insurance companies do use this law when making decisions for car accident settlements, their decisions aren’t set in stone. Keep in mind that insurance companies often look for any excuse to pay you less and if they see an opportunity to blame you for the accident, they’ll likely take it. In these situations, having a lawyer by your side will put you in a much better position to argue your case and fight against any insurance company’s attempts to pay you less.
When You Have a Lot to Lose
If you’ve suffered serious injuries as a result of your accident, you have a lot to lose and you likely need to speak with a lawyer. Insurance companies will always try to deny you as much compensation as they think they can get away with in order to save themselves money. Only a lawyer will act in your best interest and give you the aggressive representation you deserve.
If you’re worried about not being able to afford a lawyer, keep in mind that most car accident lawyer fees are charged on a contingency-fee basis. This means the lawyer doesn’t get paid unless they win your case. There should be no upfront costs, and you shouldn’t owe them a penny unless a successful outcome is reached for your case.
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Fayetteville, AR, Niblock Law Firm is a name you can trust. We’ve recovered millions for our clients and we’re prepared to fight against the insurance companies and protect your rights. So don’t hesitate to give us a call or contact us online for a free case review today!