Can I Still Hire An Attorney?
You were in a car accident but did not hire an attorney to assist with your case. Now that some time has passed since the incident you have reconsidered that it would be beneficial to have legal representation. Is too late to hire a lawyer to help you with a car accident lawsuit?
No, it may not be too late and in fact, it happens more often than you would think. While you shouldn’t assume that it’s too late, know that you cannot delay. In Colorado, the maximum amount of time to file an injury case is 3 years, but in some cases, you may only have days. It’s important to hire a McDivitt attorney as soon as possible so your legal team can start digging into the details of your case and ensure you file on time.
The Benefits of hiring an attorney early
In the immediate days following a car accident many people are overwhelmed by the experience, and rightfully so. In the stress of the moment many drivers do not know whom to contact, how to navigate an auto claim, or understand the benefits of hiring an attorney for their auto accident case.
The more time that transpires between the date of the accident and when you hire an attorney, the harder it will be to recover evidence from the scene of the accident or find capable witnesses to verify your case. Acting swiftly will be instrumental in getting the best settlement offer possible.
Finally, a car accident lawyer will be able to guide you through the necessary steps to take to ensure you are adequately treated for your injuries and ensured the best possible outcome. An attorney will have you see medical specialists, document your damages and injuries, and calculate any lost earnings and future medical care expenses.
When is it too late to hire a lawyer?
There is a statute of limitations for how long you can wait before filing a lawsuit. In Colorado the maximum amount of time to file an injury case is 3 years, but in some cases this time frame may vary. Factors that can decrease the amount of time you have to file include where you were injured, who else was involved in the accident, and whether or not you were working at the time of the crash. Again, it is optimal to have your case filed sooner rather than later. Fortunately, an experienced lawyer will be familiar with the tools to construct a case around the information you can provide.
With few exceptions, once you settle with an insurance company you will waive your ability to have an attorney file a lawsuit. Insurance companies do not want you to hire an attorney and will do everything they can to finalize a deal before you can seek legal counsel.
When speaking to your insurance company, or the “at-fault” driver’s insurance company, be careful what you tell them. It is best not to discuss fault and decline to give them a recorded statement until speaking with an experienced and skilled Colorado car accident lawyer. The insurance company may attempt to pressure you into signing an unfair settlement that is often far below what you need to fully recover.
Never sign anything without speaking to a lawyer first. It will be too to get the maximum amount of money you deserve.
Why hire an attorney?
On average, drivers who hire a lawyer will receive a settlement nearly four times greater than if they opted to represent themselves. Even in cases where time has elapsed since the date of the accident, a lawyer will still be able to get you a better offer.
An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to collect witness statements, review medical records, and present any relevant photographs, videos, or other evidence that will help with your case. Additionally, an attorney will be able to determine what you are entitled to through your insurance policy and send a demand letter on your behalf.
Unfortunately, insurance companies will attempt to offer you the lowest possible settlement for your injuries. Without the right lawyer on your side, they may not offer you enough money to pay for all your medical expenses and long-term care. You don’t have to fight this alone; we can help.
Our car accident attorneys are experienced in negotiating fair settlements with insurance companies and, when necessary, fighting for clients’ rights in court. Our attorneys will be able to protect your
rights to compensation during this time, so you can focus on your recovery.
McDivitt practices on a contingency basis. We don’t get paid until you get the money you deserve. Remove the stress of dealing with the legal process and let McDivitt handle the burden.
If you or your loved one has been injured in a car accident – follow these steps closely to avoid making serious and critical mistakes.
