It was a normal day until another car hit you. Now you’re nursing painful injuries, sidelined from work, and trying to figure out your next move. If you’re like most people, you’re probably also wondering how soon you should contact a car accident lawyer.
Here’s a general rule of thumb: Talk to an attorney before making any statements to any insurance company — even your own insurer.
Michigan is a no-fault insurance state, which means you are entitled to compensation from your insurer regardless of who is at fault for the wreck. But even if you fulfill every obligation to your insurance company, you may still find your claim for benefits denied. This comes as a shock to many policyholders, who believe that their insurance company will be there for them in their time of need. Getting a lawyer as soon as possible can improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve in a timely way.
You will need to notify your insurer of the accident according to the terms spelled out in your policy. Deadlines can be short, so if you must inform the insurance company before talking to an attorney, keep it brief. Do not discuss any injuries or make a recorded statement until you’ve spoken with an experienced car accident lawyer.
During your search, look for a law firm that focuses exclusively on serious car accident cases. The best firms spend at least 80 percent of their time on auto injury claims and offer free consultations to prospective clients.
Don’t feel pressured to hire the first attorney you interview. Sometimes it takes talking to a lawyer or two before you find the one who best understands your needs and goals.
Once you’ve retained a car accident lawyer, the good news is that the pressure’s off. Your attorney will handle all communications with the insurance company so you can focus on your recovery. Your lawyer will also investigate the claim, manage all settlement talks, and connect you with medical professionals to get the best possible care.
Michigan has a three-year statute of limitations on car accident claims. You must file a claim before the clock runs out, or you could lose your rights to compensation forever. Though you have three years, it’s best to hire an attorney well before the deadline. Car accidents require a thorough investigation. Getting started quickly increases your chances of collecting critical evidence before it is lost or erased.
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. But with the right law firm on your side, you can focus on your health and let your attorney fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. The car accident lawyers at Christensen Law are proven trial attorneys with a track record of success representing clients throughout Michigan. We have offices conveniently located in Detroit, Southfield, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
