Getting into a car accident can be incredibly stressful. You’ll need to make repairs to your vehicle, and in some cases, you may be dealing with injuries. In the aftermath of the accident, you’ll also need to deal with insurance companies. If you’re found at fault in the accident, you may even be facing a lawsuit.
You may be wondering if you need to hire an attorney after an accident. Every situation is different – having an attorney on your side can be incredibly helpful in many scenarios, but it isn’t always necessary. Here’s what to consider before hiring an attorney after an auto accident.
When Should I Hire An Attorney?
The decision to hire an attorney after a car accident depends on several factors. If someone was injured in the accident, or if there was extensive property damage, an attorney can help to protect you. They can help you negotiate with the insurance companies, so you can avoid paying more than you have to. An attorney can also be beneficial if it’s unclear who exactly is at fault for the accident. In addition to defending you in court, an attorney can help you manage the paperwork that comes after a car accident and guide you through this complicated process.
If you’re interested in hiring an attorney after a car accident, it’s important first to report the accident to your insurance agent. They will file the claim to the carrier on your behalf. Your insurance company will also reach out to settle the claim and may have some questions for you. Contacting your agent and taking the call from your insurance carrier should be done as soon as possible. Now, if you and your agent still decide to get an attorney involved is the best option, the steps you took with your agent will give your attorney the data and details needed for your case and time to develop a strategy moving forward.
When Don’t I Need An Attorney?
There are also many situations in which you won’t need an attorney after an accident. If you’re in a single-car accident, it’s usually easiest to communicate with your insurance agent directly. You also may not need an attorney if the crash resulted in little to no property damage and no one was injured, or if your insurance policy comfortably covers the damages from the accident.
The Importance of Umbrella Insurance
Having the right insurance coverage can make things much easier after an accident. If you’re found liable for an expensive accident, your standard Auto Insurance may not be enough. Umbrella Insurance can provide broader financial protection in addition to the insurance policies you already have.
Umbrella Insurance provides financial coverage if you are found liable for an amount of money that exceeds your existing Auto Insurance policy. Umbrella Insurance mainly follows the Home Insurance policy and extends to other types of liability policies you may have. Most umbrella policies provide coverage in excess of $1 million. In an increasingly litigious world, Umbrella Insurance can protect you from financial struggles.
An attorney can potentially be helpful after a serious auto accident. However, every situation is different, so you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons with your insurance agent before making your final decision. An acceptable Umbrella Insurance policy can help to protect you in this situation. Insurance Innovations provides Umbrella Insurance as well as other insurance products in Grafton and Thiensville, Wisconsin.
How To Learn More
To learn more about Auto and Umbrella Insurance, contact Insurance Innovations. Our licensed professionals will be happy to answer any questions you have.
