If you've been in a car accident and feel unsure about what to do next, you're not alone. In many cases, a person who has been injured in a car accident will feel overwhelmed and confused about the best course of action. If this sounds familiar, know that hiring an accident lawyer can be one of your smartest next steps. An accident lawyer is trained to handle the often-complicated legal aspects of a car accident. Here's when you should hire one.

1. When You Want Help With the Insurance Claims Process

Once an insurance claim is made to the other party's car insurer, that insurer will typically send out their adjuster to assess property damage and injuries. The adjuster won't be working in your best interests; they work for the other driver's insurance company (who pays when there is a settlement). You might need to hire a personal injury lawyer if the insurance adjuster makes an initial lowball offer and you want to go after more compensation.

2. When You Want to Hold the Other Party Accountable

Insurance companies try to limit payouts, and nearly every person will settle for less than they deserve. If you're willing to hold the other driver accountable, you may need an accident lawyer on your side. Letting an insurance adjuster make decisions about compensation can be risky. Insurance companies will typically take the path of least resistance to minimize their payout, which can lead to you receiving less than you're owed.

3. When You Need to Settle Fast

If your injuries are severe, you might need to settle fast. This is when you should hire an accident lawyer. They can negotiate on your behalf or go to court if necessary to get the settlement that you're owed. That way, you don't have to wait months for your insurance company to process your claim.

4. When You Receive a Denial Letter for Your Injury Claim

If you send in an injury claim to the insurance company and they deny it, that's not necessarily the end of your case. If this happens to you, don't give up! Take the denial letter to an accident lawyer. They'll know how to deal with insurance companies and will be able to help you build your case for appeal.

5. When You Just Want Answers

If you've never dealt with an insurance claim before, the process might feel intimidating to you. Let a personal injury lawyer take care of things for you so that you can focus on your health and recovery. They'll handle getting in touch with insurance companies, filing claims, negotiating settlements, and making sure you're taken care of after your accident.

In the United States, car accidents are responsible for most personal injury claims, according to Alllaw.com. An accident lawyer is an essential ally when navigating the complicated legal aspects of a car accident case. If you've recently been in a car accident, don't hesitate to contact Ausband and Dumont today.