When Should You Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Not every accident requires an attorney—but knowing when you DO need one can mean the difference between a fair settlement and being shortchanged by insurance companies.
📞 Free Consultation: (818) 482-22606 Signs You Need a Car Accident Lawyer
If any of these apply to your situation, consult an attorney immediately.
Serious Injuries Occurred
If you or passengers suffered significant injuries requiring medical treatment, hospitalization, or ongoing care, you need an attorney.
- • Broken bones
- • Traumatic brain injury
- • Spinal cord damage
- • Internal bleeding
Wrongful Death
If a loved one was killed in the accident, a wrongful death attorney can help your family seek justice and compensation.
- • Funeral expenses
- • Lost income
- • Loss of companionship
- • Punitive damages
Disputed Liability
When fault is unclear or being contested, an attorney can investigate and prove who was responsible.
- • Multi-vehicle accidents
- • Intersection collisions
- • No witnesses
- • Conflicting police reports
Insurance Company Tactics
If the insurer is delaying, denying, or offering a lowball settlement, you need professional representation.
- • Quick settlement offers
- • Recorded statement requests
- • Claim denials
- • Blame shifting
Multiple Parties Involved
Accidents involving multiple vehicles, commercial trucks, or government vehicles require experienced legal handling.
- • Semi-truck accidents
- • Uber/Lyft crashes
- • City bus collisions
- • Chain-reaction accidents
Statute of Limitations Concerns
Legal deadlines for filing claims vary by state. An attorney ensures you don't lose your right to compensation.
- • California: 2 years
- • Time-sensitive evidence
- • Government claims: 6 months
- • Discovery rule exceptions
Can You Handle It Alone?
✓ You Might Handle It Alone If...
- ✓Minor fender-bender with no injuries
- ✓Clear fault and cooperative insurance
- ✓Only property damage under $1,000
- ✓Both parties agree on what happened
✗ You Need a Lawyer If...
- ✗Any injury requiring medical treatment
- ✗Insurance company is being difficult
- ✗Fault is disputed or unclear
- ✗Commercial vehicle involved
- ✗Pre-existing conditions aggravated
- ✗Lost wages or long-term disability
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
Most car accident lawyers work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing upfront. They only get paid if you win, typically 33-40% of your settlement.
How soon after an accident should I contact a lawyer?
Contact an attorney as soon as possible, ideally within days of the accident. Early involvement helps preserve evidence and prevents costly mistakes.
Will hiring a lawyer mean I have to go to court?
No, over 95% of car accident cases settle out of court. Lawyers negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, only going to trial if necessary.
Can I switch lawyers if I'm unhappy?
Yes, you have the right to change attorneys at any time. Your new lawyer will handle the transition and fee arrangements with your previous counsel.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
You may still recover compensation. California follows "pure comparative negligence," meaning you can recover damages minus your percentage of fault.
Not Sure If You Need a Lawyer?
Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We'll honestly tell you if you need representation or can handle it yourself.
📞 Free Case Review: (818) 482-2260