What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

Car accidents are stressful on our bodies, our finances, and our relationships, and most people seek out legal counsel to manage the complex process. But what does a car accident lawyer do? Find out exactly when you need to enlist a lawyer’s aid and what you get with them by your side.

We all hope we never get in a car accident, but the odds aren’t exactly in our favor – 139,084 people are injured each year in auto accidents in Canada. If you’re stuck dealing with injuries, insurance issues, and legal claims, understanding your rights is essential.

When do you need to use a car accident lawyer? We’re shedding light on the legal process after an accident to help you determine your next best steps.

The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer in Ontario

What kind of lawyer do I need for a car accident?

Car accident lawyers specialize in Canadian and provincial personal injury law, understanding your rights and obligations inside and out. We represent people injured in accidents to help streamline the process and secure fair compensation for their damages.

#1: Case Evaluation

A car accident lawyer serves as your detective, pulling evidence and piecing together the details of your accident. They’ll visit the accident scene, documenting any road conditions, traffic signs, and other environmental factors that could have contributed to the accident. They’ll take photos of your car, skid marks, and any other evidence.
Your lawyer will review the police report, analyze officer observations, and speak to vital witnesses in the case. Your medical records are essential documentation they will pull and review. With all the correct information at their fingertips, an attorney can work to determine fault in the accident.

#2: Insurance Company Negotiations

Your car insurance lawyer serves as a go-between and mediator with your insurance company. After reviewing your insurance policy coverage and limits, they’ll build a robust case evaluation to serve as evidence with the insurance adjuster. They’ll carefully explain the cause of the accident and the full impact of any injuries on your life and finances. By accurately calculating your current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses, they’ll be in a strong position to negotiate a fair payout. They’ll mind deadlines for responses to insurance requests, document all communications, and fight against any pressure from the insurance company for an unfair settlement.

#3: Personal Injury Lawsuits

If negotiations with insurance fall apart, your lawyer will guide you through the legal process to file a personal injury lawsuit.
They’ll lead you through every step, including:

• Filing the Lawsuit: A lawyer for auto accidents will draft and file a formal lawsuit with the court, outlining the details of the accident, your injuries, and any damages suffered. They’ll identify the at-fault party and clearly state your fair claim for compensation.
• Pre-Trial Discovery: Here, both sides gather evidence to support their case. Your lawyer can perform depositions and request documents, witness statements, and any relevant medical records from the defendant and their insurance company.
• Trial Preparation: If a settlement isn’t reached before the trial, your lawyer will meticulously prepare by finalizing witness lists, preparing opening and closing arguments, and ensuring all evidence is properly organized and admissible in court.
• Trial Proceedings: At the trial, your personal accident lawyer is your representative, presenting evidence to a judge or jury on your behalf. Lawyers may call witnesses, present expert testimony, and argue your case before the court.
• Settlement or Verdict: After all evidence has been presented and the trial is over, the judge or jury will reach a verdict. Until then, the best car accident lawyers will still work diligently to settle and avoid the uncertainty of a jury decision.

Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

Some car accidents don’t require lawyers, but the more complicated the case, the more likely a lawyer should get involved to secure the best outcome possible.

If your accident involves:

1. Serious or permanent injuries and lost quality of life;
2. Disputes about who is at fault in the accident;
3. Complex insurance issues, including multiple policies or underinsured parties;
4. Or a difficult insurance company unwilling to agree on a fair settlement,

you’re best to see legal counsel immediately to assist you through the process.

Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer

It can be challenging to take the first steps and hire an accident attorney, but once one is on your side, they’ll make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible for you.

With an Ontario accident lawyer, you’ll get legal expertise, reduced stress without the legal burden on your shoulders, and maximized compensation. Personal injury attorneys represent your interests and fiercely advocate against difficult insurance companies that try to strong-arm victims into low settlements.

What do car accident lawyers charge?

Personal injury lawyers charge nothing until they secure a settlement for your accident. If they secure a win, they usually accept a percentage of your payout for their services.

The Morris Law Group—Car Accident Attorneys Near Me

When you hire a car accident lawyer, you don’t need to worry about your rights – your advocate protects you and explains every step of the process.

At the Morris Law Group, our Hamilton car accident lawyers are ready to help you through your accident recovery and get you back to normal. We’re here as your advocates to help you navigate the complicated insurance and legal systems for the best outcomes possible. Request a free consultation or call us at 905-526-8080 to learn more.