According to Driver Knowledge, an average of 6 million car accidents occur each year. While vehicle accidents are common, however, not every collision requires an attorney. Sometimes it can be difficult to assess whether or not you need legal representation from car accident lawyers.
The Law Offices of Blaine Barrilleaux is an experienced personal injury law firm in Lafayette, Louisiana. Our team has helped countless individuals receive the justice they deserved after a crash. We are dedicated to helping others understand their legal rights and fight for any compensation they may be entitled to obtain. For a better understanding of when you might need to get a car wreck attorney after a mishap, we’ve put together a helpful guide.
Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer?
In many cases, if a car wreck is insignificant, the likelihood of needing an injury attorney is little to none. For example, if someone backs-up into a parked car, there may be minor damage and no injuries. In this type of case, you may not need a lawyer.
Typically in minor car wreck cases, you and the other driver will take care of the accident with your insurance companies. However, there are cases when hiring an experienced car accident lawyer will be in your best interest. Some examples include:
Serious and/or life-damaging injuries – If someone is injured in a collision, then seeking legal help will be important.
Inaccurate police report – If the police report does not accurately explain what occurred, then hiring a car accident lawyer will be beneficial to your case.
Death occurred – If anyone is killed as a result of a collision, then you should contact a car wreck attorney immediately. This type of case will need an experienced lawyer to oversee the intense details of this case.
Although these are some examples of when you need to hire a car accident lawyer, there are other circumstances when legal guidance will be required. If you’re involved in a car crash, and uncertain if you should have legal representation, call The Law Offices of Blaine Barrilleaux for some impartial, expert advice. We can determine if you need to have a lawyer handling the details of your accident claim.
The Difference Between Injury Damage and Property Damage
After a mishap, two things may have occurred: injury and/or property damage. These two types of damages are different; however, both can help an individual receive compensation if the collision is not their fault.
Injury damages – This is bodily damage to an individual involved in a wreck. Injuries can result in permanent damage, time spent away from work, and pain and suffering.
Property damage – This form of damage is done to a person’s vehicle or other valuables as a result of a crash. This can include scratches, shattered windows, dents, and more.
Depending on the severity of the accident, a wreck may only involve property damage. For more serious collisions, both injury and property damage may be involved.
Most Common Injuries After an Accident
Driver Knowledge reports that 3 million people are injured every year in a vehicle accident. Injuries are not uncommon after a collision. While some injuries are minor, others can result in life-altering damage and in some tragic cases, death. Some of the most common injuries include the following:
- Scrapes and cuts
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine injuries
- Broken bones
- Burn injuries
While these are the most common type of injuries, there are many other injuries that can occur from a collision. Talk to our experienced car accident lawyers for help and guidance.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Treatment After a Collision
Sometimes motorists and/or passengers involved in a mishap will not seek medical attention afterward. In some cases, individuals will see a physician once the pain has gone, which could be weeks after the wreck. Both of these decisions can impact a victim’s opportunity to receive any type of compensation.
Compensation is intended to help cover the expenses due to the vehicle crash. It’s vital that you seek medical treatment after an accident. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, it’s in your best interests to see a qualified doctor. This can help protect your rights to compensation.
Contact Our Team to Learn About Your Legal Options
At The Law Offices of Blaine Barrilleaux, we know the devastating impact that a motor vehicle accident can have on an individual and their family. For this reason, our knowledgeable car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping those that fall victim to the negligent actions of other motorists. We’re ready to review your claim and inform you of your legal options.
Keep in mind, this type of case is time-sensitive, which means that waiting to handle your claim may result in little to no compensation for damages. Call our office today at (337) 221-4910 to speak to one of our expert car accident lawyers or fill out our free consultation form. We look forward to helping you understand your options.