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Do I Need a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident?

Unfortunately, car accidents are a common occurrence in Florida, and whether you are involved in a minor fender-bender or a major collision, the aftermath can be catastrophic. One of the most pressing dilemmas that come to mind after any accident is whether or not hiring a lawyer is necessary. While some believe it’s unnecessary to retain a lawyer for a minor crash, having legal representation can make all the difference in safeguarding your rights and ensuring you receive just compensation. Please continue reading to learn why you should never forgo expert legal guidance and how our dedicated Manatee County Car Accident Lawyers can help you fight for the justice you deserve. 

What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

If you have been involved in a car accident due to the negligent actions of another party, connecting with a seasoned lawyer is in your best interest. A lawyer can perform various tasks on your behalf including investigating the circumstances of the accident and gathering pertinent evidence while you focus on your recovery. They will review the facts of your case to determine the strength of your claim and the potential compensation you may be entitled to. A lawyer will also evaluate your current and future losses, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

Essentially, they can help you build a case to prove who was at fault and establish your right to compensation. It’s important to note that. Florida is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that you can recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, the amount of damages you can recover is reduced by your percentage of fault for the accident.

When you are dealing with insurance companies, a lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. Insurance companies often try to lowball those without representation, taking advantage of the fact they are unfamiliar with how much their claim may be worth. If you cannot reach a settlement, your lawyer can represent your interests and advocate for your rights in court.

Should I Retain a Lawyer if I’m Involved in a Minor Car Accident?

Following a car accident, it’s advisable to hire a lawyer to ensure the timely filing of claims. It’s important to understand that the statute of limitations in Florida states those injured in car accidents have two years from the date of their accident to take legal action against the negligent party. Although this may seem like a substantial amount of time, the truth is, that the sooner you file your claim, the better. Failure to meet this strict filing deadline will result in the absolute bar of recovery. A lawyer will ensure you file your claim within the right time frame.

As you can see, retaining the legal services of a car accident lawyer can provide several benefits. At Becker & Lindauer, LLC, we are prepared to help discuss your legal options and fight for the compensation you ned to get your life back on track. Connect with our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you.