Partner
You don’t always need a lawyer after a car accident, but legal help can make a major difference if you’re seriously injured, facing medical bills, or dealing with a disputed claim. A lawyer can protect your rights, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and help you recover compensation you might otherwise miss. If fault is unclear or your injuries are long-term, consulting an attorney is often the safest move.
When a Lawyer Can Help After a Car Accident
In more serious accidents, an attorney can protect your financial future and make sure you’re treated fairly by insurers. You should consider hiring a lawyer if:
- You suffered injuries that required medical treatment
- You missed time from work due to the accident
- The other driver’s insurance company is disputing fault
- You’re being asked to give a recorded statement
- You’re being pressured to settle quickly
- The crash involved multiple vehicles, commercial trucks, and uninsured drivers
- A loved one died as a result of the accident
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help calculate damages, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and gather evidence to support your claim.
What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Actually Do?
Hiring a car accident attorney does more than file paperwork. Legal teams work behind the scenes to build a strong case and protect your rights.
Key tasks an attorney handles include:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Obtaining medical records and calculating damages
- Communicating with insurers on your behalf
- Identifying all liable parties
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Taking the case to trial if necessary
Many clients don’t realize that insurance companies are not required to offer you a fair deal, and their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. A lawyer levels the playing field.
Can You Afford a Lawyer After a Crash?
Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless you win. The fee is usually a percentage of your final settlement or verdict.
This structure helps injured individuals get legal help without paying up front. It also incentivizes attorneys to pursue the best possible outcome, since they don’t get paid unless you do.
Always ask for a written fee agreement and make sure you understand which costs are covered, including court fees and expert witnesses.
What If the Insurance Company Already Made an Offer?
Even if you’ve already received a settlement offer, it’s smart to get a legal opinion before accepting it. Initial offers are often lower than the true value of your case, especially if future medical treatment or wage loss isn’t fully accounted for.
Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you generally can’t go back and ask for more money—even if new injuries surface later. A lawyer can evaluate whether the offer is reasonable based on your actual damages.
Don’t Let Deadlines Cost You Compensation
New Jersey has a two-year statute of limitations for filing most personal injury claims, including those from car accidents. That means if you wait too long to take legal action, you may lose the right to recover compensation—regardless of how strong your case is.
Certain exceptions apply (such as claims involving government vehicles), and an attorney can help determine what deadlines apply in your situation.
Talk to a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer
Getting legal advice is a smart first step, especially if you’re hurt, facing medical bills, or unsure about your rights. That’s where Nagel Rice can assist you. We help car accident victims across New Jersey understand their legal options and pursue full compensation for their injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation.