Should I Get a Lawyer for My Car Accident?

Have you recently been involved in a car accident? You may ask yourself, “Should I get a lawyer for my car accident?” Not every car accident requires help from an attorney, though we do recommend that you at least speak to an attorney about your accident.

Many personal injury law firms – like us – provide a free consultation. We can help you understand your best legal options without any obligation or risk to you.

Contact an Experienced Lawyer Now

Below, San Jose car accident lawyer Braid Pezzaglia explains a few scenarios when you should get a lawyer for a car accident. It is important to note that these points are not the only reasons you may need an attorney.

1. If You Suffered an Injury or Lost a Loved One in the Accident

If you were injured, or you lost a loved one in the accident, you should consider hiring an experienced attorney. Serious injuries can result in hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars in damages. If you cannot work due to your injuries, then lost wages along with piling medical bills can quickly become a financial burden on you and your family.

Our San Jose car accident attorney may be able to help you properly document your injuries and assess your damages. He may also be able to shoulder the legal burden of your injury claim, so you can focus on your recovery.

2. If There Is Question About Accident Fault

You may believe that the other party was at fault for your car accident. In some cases, accident fault is clear and uncontested. However, it is not uncommon for both parties to be found partly liable for an accident.

California is a comparative fault state. This means that you may still be able to recover compensation from the accident if you are found partly responsible. However, the percentage you are found at fault will be deducted from that compensation.

If you are representing yourself, it will be more difficult to recover fair compensation for your damages. The other driver’s insurer may contest liability or even try to pin some of it on you. A good car accident attorney can help you investigate the accident and preserve the crucial evidence needed to prove you are not at fault.

3. If You Have to Deal With the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

If you need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company, we recommend that you discuss your situation with a lawyer first. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. It is common for an insurance company to try to minimize its payout.

The other driver’s insurance company may:

• Ask you to sign a quick and unfair settlement
• Downplay your damages and injuries
• Blame your injuries on something else
• Deny your claim

Having a lawyer on your side can make all the difference. As an experienced litigator, attorney Braid Pezzaglia may be able to represent you in negotiations and/or the courtroom, if a trial is unavoidable.

Discuss Your Situation With Our Car Accident Lawyer

After a car accident in San Jose or the surrounding area, consider speaking with an experienced attorney about your accident. Call Braid Pezzaglia at (408) 650-8955 or fill out our online form to get in touch with him. Through a free consultation, he can answer any questions you may have about your accident and help you determine your best legal options.