The aftermath of a car accident is rarely stress-free. You’re likely affected physically, mentally, and emotionally. Not to mention that your car is damaged and medical bills are going to be expensive. You’re not sure whether you should contact a Utah lawyer or attempt to handle the claim on your own. After all, that’s what insurance companies are for, right?

Whether you’ve been involved in a fender bender or a multi-vehicle accident, your car accident attorney can ensure you are taking the necessary steps to secure the compensation you need for recovery. They can also ensure that profit-focused insurance companies don’t take advantage of your desperation.

At Craig Swapp & Associates, we know how challenging it can be to know when to start looking for a lawyer. Fortunately, we offer free claim assessments so you’ll know how we can help before you sign anything. Continue reading to learn more about when to contact a lawyer after a car accident in Utah.

When You’ve Been Seriously Injured

Utah is one of a few states that follow no-fault laws when it comes to car accidents. For you, this means you’ll have some personal injury protection (PIP) insurance for your injuries. This insurance should cover some of the costs for a minor accident.

However, you might have been in more than a minor wreck. Utah’s PIP insurance only covers the first $3,000 in medical expenses. After that, you’ll need to file a claim with your insurance company or with the other driver’s insurer to secure the remaining funds you need.

If you’ve been hit by another driver and the damages are serious, you might consider speaking to a lawyer. You’ll need help ensuring you’re getting your full settlement, and you don’t want to be left with the expenses that come with a major accident.  

When the Insurance Company Won’t Help

After a car crash, you should be able to rely on your insurance company, right? Unfortunately, they’re not there just to protect you. They’re also interested in retaining profit margins, which means your recovery and damages come second.

When you’re in a serious accident, the insurance company is focused on paying you the least amount of money possible. They will likely lowball your settlement, for example, offering you less than what your claim is worth. Otherwise, they might use other bad faith tactics, such as ignoring attempts to contact them, trying to place some of the blame on you, or even refusing to offer you a settlement at all.

You deserve funds for all the ways your life has been affected, both financially and emotionally. A lawyer can help ensure that greedy insurers don’t take advantage of your vulnerable state.

When You Need Someone on Your Side

A minor car accident might not seem bad enough to warrant help. You’re overwhelmed, but you’re still not sure whether you should make the call to a law office such as Craig Swapp & Associates.

Knowing when to contact a lawyer after a car accident in Utah is nuanced. You want to avoid legal proceedings, but you also want to protect your settlement. This is what a lawyer is for.

If you’re not sure that you’re ready to involve an attorney, call us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your claim, explain the process, and outline how we can help you. Lawyers can represent you at each stage of the claims process so you can focus on healing. Reach out by calling 1-800-404-9000 or by completing the online form below.