Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. | February 25, 2025 | Car Accidents
Even a minor car accident can cause stress and confusion. If no one seems seriously hurt and the damage is minimal, you might wonder, should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident? The answer depends on several factors, including injuries, insurance issues, and potential legal disputes.
Here’s what you need to know before deciding whether to handle your claim alone or hire a car accident lawyer.
Depending on the circumstances, you might not need legal help. If the accident only caused minor vehicle damage and no one was hurt, handling the insurance claim on your own may be the best choice. However, even small accidents can lead to unexpected problems.
Here are a few things to consider.
Don’t assume you’re unharmed just because you feel fine initially. Injuries from a crash may not be obvious at first. Whiplash, concussions, and back injuries often have delayed symptoms, for example. Pre-existing conditions can also be worsened by a crash.
Before handling your claim or speaking with the insurance company, make sure you know the full extent of your injuries.
If the insurance company has already offered a settlement, be aware that the offer may not fully compensate you. Be sure you know your total damages before accepting an offer, because the settlement agreement is final once it’s signed.
Before accepting a settlement, make sure your lost wages are accurately calculated and compensated. Confirm all your medical expenses, such as an urgent care visit or ER visit, are accounted for.
Pay special attention to compensation for car repairs or your vehicle’s value if totaled. Insurance companies use automated systems for valuation that are not always accurate. Do your own research to determine the value of your car and review the valuation report. Is the pre-crash condition accurate? Do the comparable sales demonstrate your vehicle’s true market value?
Diminished value is often overlooked in car accident claims. If you are making a claim against the at-fault driver’s policy, you can seek compensation for your car’s diminished value. After an accident, a vehicle is often worth less than a vehicle that has not been involved in a collision, even if it’s repaired to its pre-crash condition.
If the other driver or their insurer blames you, it can affect your ability to recover damages. If liability is unclear, or you aren’t sure how to prove the other party caused the crash, it may be time to speak with a car accident lawyer.
Even after a minor crash, certain situations make it a good idea to consult with an attorney. Here are common scenarios in which it makes sense to speak with a lawyer.
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, they can worsen over time. Whiplash and concussions, for example, may not show symptoms for days. For most people, these injuries resolve within weeks, but some people experience lasting effects.
If you accept a settlement too soon, you might not get compensation for medical expenses that arise later. A lawyer can help ensure your claim accounts for all medical costs.
Insurance companies don’t always act in good faith. If your claim is denied or the insurer is offering less than you think is fair, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf. Your lawyer’s goal is to maximize compensation for your damages. They can assist with appealing a denied claim, gathering necessary evidence, and pursuing a fair settlement.
If the other driver argues that you caused the accident, your insurance rates could increase. Any fault assigned to you will also reduce your financial recovery. A lawyer can help gather evidence to prove the true cause of the crash.
Even without serious injuries, medical care after a car accident can be costly. In Madison, Wisconsin, an ambulance ride is $1,410 plus $16 per mile. If you need to be hospitalized, the average cost is $2,804 per day in Wisconsin. The state has the fifth highest hospital costs in the country.
Even without considering follow-up care or lost earnings, you may be facing thousands in medical bills from even a minor injury. A lawyer can help you recover the fair compensation you need.
Insurers often try to settle quickly for as little as possible. If they ask you to sign paperwork or accept a lowball offer, be cautious. A lawyer can review any settlement to make sure it covers all your expenses.
A lawyer can handle the legal process for you, giving you peace of mind while you focus on recovering. Here’s how an attorney can help:
The decision to hire a lawyer after a minor crash depends on your situation. If there’s property damage only and no injuries, you may be fine handling it alone. However, if you are unsure about your rights, facing insurance challenges, or dealing with medical expenses, speaking with minor injury lawyers may be a good idea. A free consultation can help you decide the best course of action.
If you’re wondering, Should I get a lawyer for a car accident? consider the potential risks of handling the claim yourself and what’s at stake. If you need help with the claims process after a crash, Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. is here to help. Give us a call for a free consultation to discuss your accident and what we can do for you.
Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. is a trusted car accident law firm in Madison, WI, dedicated to fighting for your deserved compensation. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.
We proudly serve Dane County, Jefferson County, Sauk County, Rock County, Columbia County, and their surrounding areas.
Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. – Madison
308 E Washington Ave
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 256-8356
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Madison, WI
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 43.0772892,-89.3811534,17
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