Auto accident victims often find themselves asking a series of what-if questions when it comes to figuring out whether or not an auto accident attorney may be able to help them with their claim. The purpose of this article is to provide you with answers to many of these questions so that you can ultimately get the legal help that you need and deserve.

What if the insurance company says you are partially at fault? 

It is really quite common for insurance companies to try and assign at least partial fault to both drivers in an effort to save money. This is because any payout you receive will be reduced based on the percentage of fault that is assigned to you. For example, if the insurance company determines that you are 10% at fault for causing the accident that resulted in your injuries, any damages that you are entitled to will automatically be reduced by 10%. Consequently, you should expect them to try and push off as much liability on you as they can. This is why you should know that not only can an auto accident attorney prove helpful in these situations, but contacting an attorney is always going to be in your best interest since they can help you to challenge the insurance company's ruling if you disagree with the amount of fault that was assigned to you. 

What if the insurance company has already paid you for your vehicle?

When filing a claim after an auto accident you will actually need to file two separate claims with the insurance company. The first claim deals exclusively with property damage while the second claim deals with injuries. If you have already settled the claim pertaining to the damage done to your vehicle, an auto accident attorney will still be able to assist you with the claim regarding your injuries. However, if you have already accepted any money from the insurance company in regards to the injuries you suffered, hiring an attorney will not provide you with the opportunity to seek further compensation. 

What if you are still undergoing medical treatment for your injuries?

There is no need to wait until you are fully recovered from your injuries to contact an attorney. However, your attorney will likely recommend that you wait until your doctors are able to determine exactly what type and how much long-term care you will need before you accept any type of settlement offer in your case. This will help to ensure that you do not miss out on any of the money that is owed to you simply because you underestimated your future medical expenses. 

What if you are out of work and cannot afford to pay upfront?

There is no need to have money available in order to get legal help with your auto accident claim. Nearly all auto accident attorneys will be willing to consult with you regarding your case at no cost to you. Furthermore, the industry standard for this type of case is that your attorney will work on a contingency basis. This means that your responsibility to pay legal fees is contingent upon them winning your case. These legal fees will then be deducted from the total amount of your settlement. 

For more information, contact an auto accident law firm, such as Arrington Schelin, a Professional Corporation.

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