Determining whether you need a lawyer after filing a car accident claim with your insurance will depend on a number of factors. For example, if your insurance does not fully cover your damages, it is recommended to consult with a Car Accident Lawyer in Modesto. Damages covered by your insurance will be dependent on the type of policy you have, but car insurance typically covers:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Accidents with uninsured/underinsured motorists
If your injuries are minor, such as scrapes and bruises, then you will most likely not need a lawyer. However, if you suffered injuries that caused you to need medical treatment or miss time at work, then the Maison Law Accident & Injury Lawyers of Modesto can file a personal injury lawsuit against the party who caused your injury.
Filing a Lawsuit After a Modesto Car Accident Involving Injury
The majority of car accidents will be classified as a personal injury. While you are not required to have a lawyer for filing a lawsuit in a personal injury case, it is recommended. It is proven that the majority of accident victims tend to be compensated more with an attorney than without one. For that reason, you should consult with an experienced Car Accident Lawyer before filing a lawsuit. An attorney will:
- Protect your right to negotiate for a higher settlement
- Pursue damages against all liable parties through a lawsuit
- Manage your claim with the insurance if they refuse to negotiate a fair settlement
Once a lawsuit is filed, the lawyer will begin the negotiation process with the liable party’s insurance. This process always begins with a demand letter. A demand letter is normally written by an attorney and includes:
- The time, date, and location of the accident
- The name of the person/company/government entity at fault, along with their contact information (if applicable)
- Details of the injuries you’ve sustained directly from the accident
- Summary of damages incurred, which include medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic damages
- Supporting documents, which may include X-rays, MRIs, and other photos or videos of the accident if you have them
After a demand letter is sent, negotiation can begin. At the beginning of negotiations, either party will make an initial settlement offer. If your initial settlement offer is low, do not be surprised. The first settlement offer is intentionally low and it is recommended to never take the first offer. If you do end up accepting a settlement offer, it is important to note you will be giving up your right to pursue additional damages and claims against all parties involved in your accident.
What Damages Can You Claim from a Car Accident in California?
Depending on the severity of your accident, there are several damages available to car accident victims. Car accidents can be expensive for victims and their families. These damages include:
- Present and future medical expenses
- Loss of income, as well as a reduction in earning capacity
- Cost of living with an injury, such as making a home disability accessible, purchasing a wheelchair or crutches, hiring a nurse or housekeeper
- Damage done to property during the accident
- Pain and suffering caused by injuries and loss of enjoyment of life
- Stress and anxiety due to the nature of the accident
According to the Insurance Information Institute, car accidents have an average of around $16 billion in damages each year. For victims to be able to pursue compensation for their accident, it is recommended to partner with a skilled Car Accident Lawyer who can maximize their compensation.
Get Legal Help with Your Car Accident in California
If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident in Modesto, Masion Law Accident & Injury Lawyers of Modesto is here to get you the compensation you need. Our team of experienced accident attorneys understand how to exercise every avenue of the law to aggressively pursue liable parties for the full extent of your damages.
Whether you’re looking for a more experienced law firm to handle your case, or your pursuing a personal injury claim for the first time, our firm is here to help guide you through the legal process. Contact us today for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.