While many motor vehicle accidents can be resolved through insurance claims and do not require legal assistance, there are situations where having an experienced attorney by your side is essential. If you’ve been involved in a car accident that resulted in serious injuries or was caused by another party’s negligence, hiring an attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Rowsey & Stelter, Attorneys at Law in Roswell, GA, we are dedicated to helping accident victims navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

When You May Not Need an Attorney

In minor car accidents where there are no injuries or significant property damage, most cases can be settled directly through insurance companies without needing an attorney. For example, if you were involved in a small fender bender, exchanging insurance information and filing a claim with your provider is usually enough to cover repairs and minor expenses.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average property damage-only claim in 2020 was around $4,700, and in these types of cases, insurance adjusters can typically resolve the matter quickly. However, even in these smaller accidents, it’s important to ensure that your insurance company offers a fair settlement. If you feel the offer is too low or the insurer is acting in bad faith, you may still benefit from seeking legal advice.

When You Should Hire an Attorney

When a car accident involves serious injuries, significant financial loss, or negligent driving, hiring an attorney becomes crucial. Here are some situations where you should consider legal representation:

Severe or Long-Term Injuries

If you’ve suffered severe injuries, such as broken bones, spinal injuries, or head trauma, your medical bills and lost wages can add up quickly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that car crashes lead to approximately 3 million non-fatal injuries in the U.S. each year, many of which require long-term care. In such cases, an attorney can help ensure that you are compensated for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and future financial losses due to the injury.

Disputed Liability

If there is a dispute over who was at fault in the accident, having an attorney can help gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction, to prove liability. Insurance companies are often quick to reduce or deny claims when fault is unclear, and an attorney can protect your rights during the investigation.

Insurance Companies Offering Low Settlements

After a serious accident, insurance companies may offer settlements that are much lower than what you deserve. An attorney can negotiate with the insurer to secure a fair settlement or, if necessary, file a lawsuit to pursue full compensation.

Wrongful Death

If the accident resulted in the death of a loved one, an attorney can file a wrongful death claim on your behalf to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related costs.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims resulting from a car accident is usually two years. However, it’s important to begin the process as soon as possible to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and ensure that all necessary documents are filed on time.

According to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, there were 1,664 fatalities and tens of thousands of serious injuries from motor vehicle accidents in 2020 alone. If you’ve been affected by a serious car accident, don’t wait too long to seek legal help.

While not every car accident requires an attorney, serious injuries, disputed liability, and negligent driving are clear situations where having legal representation can make a difference. At Rowsey & Stelter, Attorneys at Law in Roswell, GA, we are here to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us guide you through the process with expert legal support.