Car accidents happen suddenly and can leave victims unsure about what to do next. Some collisions are minor and resolved with an exchange of insurance information, while others create serious medical, financial, and legal issues.
Knowing when to hire a lawyer can make the difference between recovering fair compensation and being left with overwhelming costs. Here is when to consider getting a lawyer for an Indianapolis car accident case. Contact Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers at (317) 916-0000 for a free consultation.
1. When Injuries Are Involved
One of the clearest signs that you should get a lawyer is when a car accident causes injuries. Even injuries that seem minor at first, such as whiplash or soft tissue injuries, may worsen with time and require additional medical care.
A lawyer can help you fully account for:
- Immediate medical bills for ER visits, surgeries, or hospitalizations
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs for physical or occupational treatment
- Future medical needs, including surgeries or long-term care
- Lost wages if you cannot work during recovery
- Reduced earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to return to your career
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress that affect your quality of life
Accident victims may accept settlements that do not cover all these expenses without a lawyer.
2. When Liability Is Disputed
Not all accidents have clear liability. The other driver may deny responsibility, or their insurance company may claim you contributed to the crash. The stakes are high when liability is contested because the outcome directly affects the compensation you can recover.
A lawyer can protect you by:
- Investigating the accident scene and collecting evidence
- Interviewing witnesses and securing sworn statements before memories fade
- Obtaining surveillance footage or dashcam video to strengthen your claim
- Working with accident reconstruction experts to recreate the crash
This is particularly important in Indiana, which follows a modified comparative fault system. This means that your percentage of fault reduces your compensation after an accident proportionally.
You also cannot recover compensation if you are found to be more than 51 percent responsible. A lawyer can push back against exaggerated or unfair attempts to shift blame onto you and protect your rights.
3. When Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Their job is to save money, not to ensure you are fully compensated. You may be pressured into a quick settlement that seems appealing if you try to negotiate on your own, but it fails to cover your actual losses.
A lawyer can:
- Communicate directly with adjusters so you do not have to.
- Identify bad faith tactics like unnecessary delays, lowball offers, or denying valid claims.
- Ensure your statements are carefully framed to avoid being used against you.
- File a lawsuit if necessary to force the insurer to act reasonably.
You can level the playing field against insurance companies by hiring a lawyer.
4. When the Accident Involves Complex Circumstances
Some collisions involve more than just two cars and a simple exchange of information. These accidents often require legal guidance to sort through multiple parties, insurance policies, and liability disputes.
Examples include:
- Multi-vehicle pileups where several drivers share responsibility
- Accidents involving commercial trucks, where trucking companies, drivers, and manufacturers may all be liable
- Rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft, where company insurance coverage may be available
- Government vehicles, which involve special filing rules and shortened deadlines
- Defective auto parts, which may give rise to product liability claim
You may overlook sources of compensation without a lawyer or miss strict notice requirements, leaving money on the table.
5. When the Statute of Limitations Is a Concern
Every state sets strict deadlines for filing car accident claims, known as statutes of limitations. The general rule in Indiana is that you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. You may lose your right to seek compensation altogether if you miss this deadline.
There are limited exceptions, but waiting too long can weaken your case if witnesses may become unavailable or physical evidence deteriorates. Hiring a lawyer early can help protect your right to recover compensation in court.
How Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers Can Help After a Car Accident
It is possible to settle a car accident claim on your own, but the process can quickly become challenging if injuries are serious or liability is disputed. Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts, not ensuring you are fully compensated. That is why having an experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers fights for accident victims, bringing together more than 40 years of combined experience and recovering millions of dollars for clients. Our personal injury team manages every step of the process from investigating your crash and calculating your damages to negotiating with insurers and presenting your case in court if needed.
We take on the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Contact an Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Not every car accident requires hiring a lawyer. But when injuries, disputed liability, or other circumstances are involved, getting a lawyer can make a significant difference. An Indianapolis car accident lawyer can handle negotiations, gather evidence, or take your case to court. Contact Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers for a free consultation.
