Most people don’t ask if they should hire a car accident lawyer, they ask when. And the answer is critical in ensuring you get what you rightfully deserve.
Right after the accident?
After talking to insurance?
Only if things get worse?
The timing matters more than people think.
Because what most people do first… is wait. And that waiting period could be detrimental in your potential settlement.
“After someone’s involved in a car crash, a lot times they wait. They wait for the insurance company to call them back. They wait to go to the doctor. They wait to get video footage. They wait to get statements from witnesses. They wait!!! And the longer they wait… the more leverage the insurance company gains.
“The insurance company will later say, ‘Well, you’re not hurt, right? Why did you wait days or even weeks to go to the doctor? You said there is a witness, but where are they? You say the videos from the corner store captured the crash, but where is the video?’
“Most people don’t realize that’s happening while it’s happening, because, on the surface, it doesn’t feel like a fight yet. They want to believe the insurance adjuster is going to do what is right.
“If the insurance company is on top of their game, they’ll have good bedside manner. They’re giving you a call. They’re seeing how you’re doing. They’re acting sympathetic on the phone and they’ll be buddy-buddy. You can’t be buddy-buddy with these insurance companies. Be cordial and profession but recognize what they are doing. All they’re doing is trying to undermine the value of your life.
“And that never becomes more clear than when the conversation shifts to money.
“If the insurance company is offering you a quick dime… they recognize that you’re hurt. They recognize that they’re at fault. They’re going to offer you a couple thousand dollars just to get rid of your case. When in reality, if they’re offering you a couple thousand dollars, it’s probably because they know that they’re going to end up paying tens of thousands of dollars in the future if you end up getting an attorney.”
What That First Offer Really Means
“By then, the situation has already shifted. What could have been clearly documented early on now has questions or doubt attached to it. Which is why the first steps matter more than people think.
“The biggest thing that they’ve got to do is they’ve got to make sure to get in the doctors because the doctors are going to document injuries which will serve as strong evidence for their case. And in my opinion, right after you take care of your health, the very first call should be to an attorney.”
Get Clarity Before You Make a Move
Timing matters more than most people realize after an accident.
What you do early, who you talk to, when you get care, how you handle insurance, can shape everything that follows. If you’re unsure what your next step should be, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Jerez Law offers free consultations, so you can get clarity on your situation before making any decisions. No pressure. Just real answers based on experience.
Contact Jerez Law today to speak directly with an attorney about your case.
FAQ: When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
You should speak to a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after seeking medical attention. Early guidance helps protect your case and ensures important details are documented properly.
Should I talk to the insurance company before hiring a lawyer?
You can, but it’s not recommended to rely on them for guidance. Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts, not protecting your best interests.
Why do insurance companies offer quick settlements?
Quick settlements are often offered to resolve claims before the full extent of injuries and damages are known. These early offers are typically lower than what a case may actually be worth.
What happens if I wait too long to see a doctor?
Delays in medical treatment can be used by insurance companies to argue that your injuries are not serious or not related to the accident.
Is it expensive to talk to a car accident lawyer?
At Jerez Law, we offer free consultations, allowing you to understand your options without any upfront cost.
