After a car crash, most people find themselves dealing with medical bills, car repairs, missed work, and calls from insurance companies. It’s stressful and confusing, especially when you’re trying to heal from your injuries. This is where a car accident lawyer can step in. Their role is to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and make sure you don’t get taken advantage of by insurers or at-fault drivers.
In Indiana, car accident claims must follow specific rules and timelines, which makes having the right lawyer even more important.
The Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
Here’s what a car accident lawyer can do for you:
Investigate the Accident
One of the first things a lawyer does is conduct a thorough investigation into how the accident happened. They review police reports, talk to witnesses, collect medical records, and sometimes work with accident reconstruction experts. This evidence is critical because most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the crash. Without solid proof collected early, victims may struggle to build a strong case within that timeframe.
Handle the Insurance Company
Insurance adjusters often contact accident victims quickly, sometimes within days of a crash. Their goal is to limit how much the company pays. A car accident lawyer can handle these communications so you don’t have to. They know how to push back against low settlement offers and can ensure the insurer respects the terms of your coverage.
Determine Liability and Damages
Establishing who is at fault is central to any accident claim. Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system, which means your compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault for the accident. If you’re found more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages. A skilled attorney will analyze the evidence to limit any blame placed on you and maximize the damages you can pursue.
Calculate the Full Value of Your Claim
Most people think only of immediate costs like hospital bills or car repairs after an accident. But an experienced lawyer will calculate the broader impact of your injuries. This may include future medical treatment, rehabilitation, long-term disability, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. By looking at the bigger picture, your lawyer will ensure you seek fair compensation instead of settling for less than what you truly deserve.
File Legal Paperwork
Car accident claims come with strict deadlines and extensive paperwork. Missing a form or filing late can seriously damage your case. A lawyer makes sure everything is filed correctly and on time—whether that means submitting claims to the insurance company, sending demand letters, or filing a lawsuit in court if negotiations break down.
Represent You in Court
While many cases settle outside of court, sometimes a lawsuit is necessary. If that happens, your lawyer will represent you at every stage—pre-trial hearings, motions, and ultimately at trial if needed. They can question witnesses, present evidence, and argue your case before the judge or jury. Having a lawyer with courtroom experience could be the difference between winning and losing your case.
Guide You Through Your Medical Treatment and Recovery
Many lawyers also help clients coordinate medical treatment by recommending trusted providers or negotiating with hospitals and doctors about billing. They know that recovering from injuries isn’t just about the physical healing—it’s also about making sure you don’t get buried in debt while waiting for your case to resolve.
Give You Peace of Mind
Perhaps one of the most overlooked benefits of hiring a car accident lawyer is the peace of mind it provides. Victims can focus on recovering while their attorney handles the legal process. From returning calls to drafting settlement agreements, a lawyer will keep the process moving while staying in contact with you about your case.
Contact an Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer at Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
You don’t have to face the aftermath of a crash alone. Call Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyer. Our Indianapolis car accident lawyers will review your case, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.