What Does A Car Accident Lawyer Do To Help Your Case?
By Doug Standriff on March 17, 2025
After a car accident, one of the first questions that comes to mind is whether hiring a lawyer is necessary. While not every situation requires a legal professional, there are many cases where a lawyer’s involvement can make a big difference.
So, what does a car accident lawyer do to help your case? Let’s find out how a lawyer can assist you, from investigating the accident to securing fair compensation.
What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?
Investigating the Accident and Gathering Evidence
One of the first things a lawyer will do is thoroughly investigate the accident. They will examine the details surrounding the incident, including police reports, witness statements, and photographs. Your lawyer will work to gather all the evidence that supports your version of events.
This step is vital if there is a dispute about who was at fault. In cases where multiple parties are involved or liability is unclear, a lawyer can bring in experts like accident reconstructionists or other professionals who can help clarify the situation.
Gathering and organizing this evidence early, a lawyer can strengthen your case and make sure all relevant details are accounted for.
Handling Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be complicated. Insurance adjusters may downplay your injuries or offer you a settlement that doesn’t fully cover your costs. A lawyer will handle communication with the insurance companies. This makes sure they follow the law and provide a fair offer.
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly to save money. A personal injury lawyer can prevent them from offering a lowball settlement–which may not cover the long-term costs of your injuries.
They will review your medical records and other damages to calculate a fair amount of compensation. If the insurance company brings an unsatisfactory settlement, your lawyer can take the matter to court.
Negotiating a Settlement
Once your lawyer has gathered evidence and reviewed the details of your case, they will begin negotiating a settlement on your behalf.
In many car accident cases, a fair settlement can be reached without going to trial. A skilled lawyer will know how to present your case in the strongest light to get you the compensation you deserve.
Your lawyer will consider all aspects of the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. They will then work with the insurance company or the responsible party to reach a settlement that is fair. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer will be ready to take the next step.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If negotiations with the insurance company do not result in a fair settlement, a car accident lawyer can file a lawsuit. While many cases settle out of court, some may require litigation to reach a just outcome.
A lawyer will handle the paperwork and court filings required to initiate the lawsuit. They will also prepare for trial by collecting additional evidence and preparing arguments. Having a certified civil trial attorney in your corner can increase the chances of a successful outcome in court.
Your lawyer will also be able to advise you on how to proceed if the case goes to trial–including what to expect during the trial process.
Protecting Your Rights and Interests
One of the most important roles of a car accident lawyer is to protect your rights.
Insurance companies and the other party involved in the accident may try to shift the blame onto you or reduce the amount of compensation you’re entitled to receive. A lawyer will make sure that your rights are upheld throughout the entire process.
They will handle any legal challenges and see to it that no one takes advantage of your situation. With an attorney represent you, you can focus on your recovery while they work to protect your financial and legal interests.
Helping You Navigate the Legal Process
The legal process after a car accident can be complex, especially if you are unfamiliar with personal injury law. A lawyer guides you through the entire process. They explain each step and make sure you understand your options.
From filing the initial claim to taking your case to trial, your lawyer will be there to answer your questions and address any concerns you have along the way.
Many people who try to handle their own cases make mistakes that can hurt their chances of a successful outcome. A lawyer will help you avoid these pitfalls by providing the expert guidance you need.
Assessing the Full Impact of Your Injuries
In many car accident cases, the full extent of injuries is not immediately clear. Some injuries may take weeks or even months to show up fully.
A car accident lawyer will have the expertise to assess the long-term impact of your injuries. These may include potential future medical costs, rehabilitation needs, and lost earning potential.
A lawyer can also help you calculate the non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. These damages are often more difficult to quantify.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
When trying to handle a car accident claim on your own, it’s easy to make mistakes that could negatively impact your case. Some common errors include accepting the first settlement offer, missing deadlines for filing claims, or failing to gather proper evidence.
A car accident lawyer will help you avoid these mistakes. They know the deadlines and requirements for filing claims, as well as how to properly handle communication with insurance companies.
Helping With Medical Bills and Documentation
After a car accident, medical bills can pile up quickly. A lawyer can help you manage these bills by communicating with your healthcare providers and insurance companies. They can also help you organize medical records and documentation needed to support your claim.
In some cases, a lawyer can even help you find medical professionals who work on a lien basis. This means they will wait for payment until your case is settled. This can help ease the financial burden while you focus on recovery.
Car Accident Injury in New Jersey? Trust Bergen Law’s Attorneys for Maximum Compensation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t settle for less. With over 30 years of experience in New Jersey personal injury law, attorneys Douglas Standriff and Marissa Messinger at Bergen Law specialize in securing maximum compensation for accident victims.
As a Certified Civil Trial Attorney, Doug Standriff is one of the top 3% of NJ attorneys who have proven his qualifications through extensive trial experience and a challenging written exam. This expertise gives you a powerful advantage in your case.
Call 551-231-8025 today for a free confidential consultation. Our team will evaluate your case with no obligation and guide you through every step of the legal process. Let Bergen Law handle the complexities of your claim. This way, you can focus on recovery. Reach out now to secure the compensation you deserve.