A motor vehicle accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Whether it is a minor fender bender or a serious collision, it is important to know when it is time to hire an attorney.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, it might be a good idea to hire an attorney depending on the circumstances. Our Santa Fe motor vehicle accident lawyer at Slate Stern Law helps victims of car accidents, truck crashes, motorcycle collisions, and other types of accidents on the road seek compensation for their injuries and losses.
1. The Insurance Company is Not Being Cooperative
If you have been in a motor vehicle accident, you will likely need to deal with insurance companies. Ideally, your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company will be cooperative and willing to work with you to resolve the situation.
However, if the insurance company is not being helpful, it can be extremely frustrating. This is when hiring a motor vehicle accident attorney can be extremely beneficial. An attorney can help you navigate the insurance claims process and deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
2. Fault is Unclear
Determining fault in a motor vehicle accident can be complicated and challenging, especially if there is a dispute between the involved parties. If you are unsure about who is at fault, it is important to hire an attorney who can help you gather evidence and build a strong case. Having an attorney on your side can help increase your chances of proving fault and recovering damages.
3. You Do Not Know the Value of Your Claim
Calculating the value of your claim can be difficult, especially if you have no experience dealing with motor vehicle accidents. An attorney can help you determine the value of your claim by taking into account factors such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. This can help ensure that you receive a fair settlement and are not taken advantage of by insurance companies.
4. The Accident Resulted in Serious Injuries
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle accident that resulted in serious injuries, you might want to consider hiring an attorney. Serious injuries can result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term disabilities. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
5. The Statute of Limitations is Running Out
The statute of limitations refers to the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit in a motor vehicle accident case. If you fail to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations, you may lose your right to seek compensation for damages. In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for negligence-based injury claims is three years (New Mexico Statutes § 37-1-8).
6. You Do Not Know How to Negotiate a Higher Settlement
Negotiating a settlement can be challenging, especially when you are dealing with insurance companies. An attorney can help you negotiate a higher settlement by using their experience and knowledge of the law. This can help ensure that you receive a fair settlement and are not taken advantage of by insurance companies.
7. You are Thinking About Taking Your Case to Court
If you are considering taking your case to court, you will need an attorney who has experience litigating motor vehicle accident cases. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and build a strong case. This can help increase your chances of proving fault and recovering damages.
Hire a Lawyer at Slate Stern Law
Hiring a motor vehicle accident attorney can be extremely beneficial if you are in any of the above-mentioned situations. Our experienced attorney at Slate Stern Law can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Reach out to our law firm to get the help you need. Call (505) 814-1517 today.