Car accidents are pretty common in the US. We never think about accidents or the possibility of getting into a car accident. This is because we all think we are great drivers. But we should understand that car accidents can happen because of others too. Negligence is the most common reason for car accidents.
Victims of car accidents can file an accident claim to recover their losses if the accident was caused by someone else. Car accident victims may sustain the following losses:
- Medical bills
- Property repair costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of quality of life
You can claim these losses in a car accident claim, but you have to prove your case. You will need the help of an experienced car accident lawyer to win a car accident claim.
The car accident victim must prove the elements of personal injury law to successfully claim compensation. The four elements of a personal injury claim are:
- Duty of care
- Breach of duty of care
- Causation
- Damages
Things a Lawyer Will Do to Win Your Case
A lawyer can help prove the elements of personal injury law. Following are five of the most important things a lawyer will do to win your car accident case:
- Investigate the Case
- Determine Negligence
- Gather Evidence
- Calculate Losses
- Expert Witnesses
Investigate the Case
The investigation is the first phase of any personal injury case. Your lawyer will visit the accident scene and investigate the accident. Sometimes, lawyers even hire private investigators to investigate the accident scene. This phase can be helpful in determining negligence and collecting evidence.
Determining Negligence
You need to know who caused the accident. Only then can you file a car accident claim. This is one of the first things a lawyer will try to do. Car drivers are not always responsible for car accidents. The following parties can be held responsible for car accidents:
- Car manufacturer
- Defective part’s manufacturer
- Car mechanic
Your lawyer will determine which party is liable for your car accident.
Gather Evidence
Without evidence, there is no case. You need substantial evidence to prove that the negligent party caused your accident, which resulted in the losses you’re suffering from. As said, you bear the burden of proof. So, it is your responsibility to provide evidence. A lawyer can do that. They will collect evidence like:
- Medical bills
- Photos and videos
- Witness testimonies
These are just examples of evidence. The lawyer will collect evidence that is specific to your case.
Calculate Losses
Calculating losses is a crucial process in a car accident claim. You need to know the losses you have sustained due to the accident. Only then can you claim compensation for the right amount. Claiming for a low amount can hurt you in the long term. Claiming too much will also lead to claim rejections.
Expert Witnesses
Expert witnesses can change the course of a case with their insights. They bring a lot to the table. They are able to provide insights on certain things that no one else can. They can do this because they are experts in that particular field. For instance, a doctor can act as an expert witness and provide insights on the severity of your injuries and how long it will take to fully heal.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a lawyer is the best thing you can do after a car accident. They are the right people who can help in obtaining fair compensation. They know that insurance companies will try to cheat the victims and will counter their strategies effectively. The above-mentioned are the five things they will do to prove your case and acquire just compensation.
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