Four Reasons To Hire A California Car Accident Lawyer
Car collisions occur all too often on the roads and freeways throughout California. In fact, the California Department of Motor Vehicles reports that in 2015 alone, there were 3,427 traffic-related deaths across the state, and 251,000 people suffered injuries as a result of motor vehicle accidents. To receive compensation for their resulting losses after such wrecks, many choose to handle the matters themselves and rely on the insurance companies. However, there are numerous reasons why it may benefit people who have been injured in auto collisions to hire an attorney.Dealing with the paperwork
Even in the best of circumstances, dealing with medical and insurance documentation can be overwhelming. To help prove their claims and get the compensation they need, though, people may have to provide such information to the insurance companies or present it in court. A personal injury attorney may be familiar with the types of documentation they may need to support their claims, as well as help them collect it and submit it as needed.
Understanding the laws and limitations
When it comes to taking legal action after a motor vehicle accident, there are several applicable laws and limitations. For example, California places a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims. Therefore, people must take action within the allotted time period, or lose their right to do so. Further, California employs an at-fault system, which limits people’s potential recoveries based on the percentage of fault they are assigned for their role in causing the accident. Familiar with these laws, car collision attorneys may help those they represent know what to expect and ensure they meet the associated deadlines and requirements.
Addressing current and future losses
After a serious personal injury, it is not too difficult for people to add up their lost wages and medical bills to determine their current losses. However, calculating the potential future costs of their injuries may be more challenging. Often having experience making such estimates, personal injury lawyers may help ensure people’s settlements meet their short-term, as well as their long-term, needs.
Providing much-needed support
Physical pain and suffering, and other effects of auto accidents, may cloud people’s judgment of their situations. Motor vehicle collision lawyers may act as a sounding board for their clients, as well as a source of realistic guidance. Additionally, personal injury attorneys may take over the negotiations with the insurance companies, helping to alleviate some of the stresses people may experience after suffering car crash injuries and ensure a fair settlement for those they represent.
When motor vehicle collisions occur in California, the effects may be devastating for those who are injured, and for their families. Therefore, those who have experienced such situations may find it helpful to discuss their rights and options with a legal representative.