Do You Need an Attorney If a Car Accident Wasn’t Your Fault?

When you’re injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, securing compensation may seem simple. After all, the other driver was clearly at fault—why would you need legal help? Unfortunately, the reality is often far more complicated. The claims process can be challenging, and failing to have proper legal representation could jeopardize the compensation you’re entitled to.

At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, we’ve advocated for accident victims since 1973. Over the years, we’ve witnessed far too many people miss out on fair compensation because they believed they could handle the process alone. In this post, we’ll explore the reasons why hiring a lawyer after an accident is non-negotiable.

Proving the Other Party Was at Fault

You must prove that the other party caused the accident to secure compensation. While this may sound simple, it often requires thorough investigation, evidence gathering, and a solid understanding of how negligence is established under the law.

Your attorney can collect crucial evidence, such as:

• Police reports,
• Eyewitness testimonies,
• Surveillance footage,
• Accident reconstructions.

With a lawyer building your case, you’ll have a far stronger position when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your claim in court.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are not on your side, no matter how cooperative they may seem initially. Their goal is to minimize payouts, and they use tactics like denying liability or undervaluing claims to serve their bottom line.

An attorney knows how to deal with these challenges. They’ll negotiate with insurers on your behalf, ensuring they don’t take advantage of you or offer a settlement far less than what you’re owed.

Determining the Full Extent of Compensation

You might initially think compensation only includes medical bills or vehicle repair costs, but the reality is far more complex. Victims can seek compensation for a variety of damages, such as:

• Medical expenses (current and future),
• Lost wages,
• Loss of future earning capacity,
• Pain and suffering,
• Emotional distress.

Without legal representation, it’s easy to overlook some of these elements or underestimate their value. A lawyer works with medical professionals and financial analysts to determine the full scope of your losses, including the impact on your long-term quality of life.

Handling Allegations of Partial Fault

Even if you didn’t cause the accident, the other party’s insurance company might attempt to argue that you share some of the blame. Ohio follows a comparative negligence system, where your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. For example, if you’re deemed 25% at-fault for the accident, your settlement can decrease by 25%.

A strong legal advocate can refute these allegations and protect your claim. Attorneys know how to effectively present evidence and arguments to minimize or eliminate claims of shared fault, helping you secure the maximum compensation possible.

Seeking Justice

If your car accident was caused by reckless behavior, such as drunk driving, it is crucial to pursue not only compensation for your losses but also accountability for the at-fault party’s actions. Reckless driving endangers lives, and those responsible must be held legally and criminally liable to prevent similar incidents in the future. You can seek legal counsel to ensure that the responsible party faces punitive damages. This approach not only serves as a form of justice for you but also contributes to the broader effort of deterring dangerous behavior on the roads.

It’s Time to Leave Your Case in Professional Hands

Navigating car accident claims on your own is more risky than it’s worth, especially when you’re injured and trying to recover. Don’t leave your compensation up to chance or trust that insurance companies will do what’s fair. Let an experienced attorney help you.

At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, we pride ourselves on our unmatched dedication to achieving justice for our clients. Don’t deal with the aftermath of an accident alone —contact us today.