{"id":353073,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:35","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/injury\/car-accidents\/hire-a-car-accident-lawyer.html"},"modified":"2025-10-28T08:05:13","modified_gmt":"2025-10-28T13:05:13","slug":"hire-a-car-accident-lawyer","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/hire-a-car-accident-lawyer.html","title":{"rendered":"Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/balrina-ahluwalia-esq\/\">Balrina Ahluwalia, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/laura-temme-esq\/\">Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            October 28, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <p>Hiring a <span data-term-id=\"53681718\">car accident lawyer<\/span> is often beneficial for navigating the complex <span data-term-id=\"53681726\">insurance <\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\">claims<\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\"> process<\/span>, <span data-term-id=\"53681729\">gathering evidence<\/span>, and negotiating for <span data-term-id=\"53681762\">maximum compensation<\/span>, particularly when you have been injured. For minor accidents with no injuries and undisputed fault, you may be able to handle the <span data-term-id=\"53681721\">property damage<\/span> claim on your own without legal assistance.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A <span data-term-id=\"53681748\">car crash<\/span> can be stressful and confusing. In the hours and days after an <span data-term-id=\"53681730\">auto accident<\/span>, you may be dealing with injuries, car repairs, and calls from the <span data-term-id=\"53681768\">other<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/insurance\/automobile-insurance.html\"><span data-term-id=\"53681768\"> driver\u2019s <\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance company<\/span><\/a>. At this moment, an attorney can be a powerful ally. Whether your case involves <span data-term-id=\"53681738\">serious injuries<\/span> or just minor damage, legal help can make a big difference in your <span data-term-id=\"53681776\">financial recovery<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>In this article, we explore some of the practical benefits of hiring a lawyer after a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents.html\">car accident<\/a>. We\u2019ll also dispel myths that <span data-term-id=\"53681728\">legal representation<\/span> means a lawsuit. Depending on the circumstances, the real value of an attorney often comes from their expertise in dealing with <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance companies<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019ve been in a wreck, consider speaking with a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"53681718\">car accident lawyer<\/span><\/a> sooner rather than later. They can help you understand your <span data-term-id=\"53681764\">legal rights<\/span> and options, including handling the process on your own. That way, you can determine the best way to proceed.<\/p>\n<h2>The Role of a <span data-term-id=\"53681720\">Car Accident Attorney<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are many ways an attorney can help a <span data-term-id=\"53681771\">car accident victim<\/span> after a crash. Their overarching responsibility is to protect your interests.<\/p>\n<p>In the context of car accidents, this usually means <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/what-kinds-of-damages-may-i-claim-for-car-accident-injuries.html\">recovering <span data-term-id=\"53681762\">maximum compensation<\/span><\/a> for your losses. This might include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681743\">Lost wages<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681721\">Property damage<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681725\">Medical bills<\/span> (current\/<span data-term-id=\"53681774\">future <\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681724\">medical expenses<\/span>)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-accident-pain-and-suffering-damages.html\"><span data-term-id=\"53681727\">Pain and suffering<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A <span data-term-id=\"53681747\">fair settlement<\/span> includes all losses to which you\u2019re entitled. More often than not, this road to recovery begins with an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/insurance\/insurance-claims.html\"><span data-term-id=\"53681726\">insurance claim<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Filing an <span data-term-id=\"53681726\">Insurance Claim<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You have a limited period of time to report an accident to your <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance company<\/span>. It\u2019s a good idea to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-accident-insurance-claims-time-limits.html\">file your claim as soon as possible<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Before doing so, consider touching base with an attorney first. They&#8217;ll review your <span data-term-id=\"53681740\">insurance policy<\/span> and the <span data-term-id=\"53681750\">at-fault driver<\/span>&#8216;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/automobile-insurance-policy-coverage.html\"><span data-term-id=\"53681756\">insurance coverage<\/span><\/a> to get an idea of the compensation you\u2019re allowed. This information can be invaluable because <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance companies<\/span> are motivated to pay you as little as they can.<\/p>\n<p>An <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"53681770\">experienced attorney<\/span><\/a> can help you avoid common pitfalls when reporting your <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"53681733\">car accident claim<\/span> to insurance<\/a>. These might include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Admitting fault<\/li>\n<li>Speaking too freely<\/li>\n<li>Giving recorded statements<\/li>\n<li>Minimizing injuries\/damage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A qualified advisor can help you understand how to handle this first interaction. They can even file the claim for you if that makes sense in your situation.<\/p>\n<h2><span data-term-id=\"53681763\">Medical Attention<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you haven\u2019t already, your lawyer will advise you to get checked out by a medical provider as soon as possible after your accident. While <span data-term-id=\"53681746\">medical treatment<\/span> is an obvious step for <span data-term-id=\"53681738\">serious injuries<\/span>, symptoms of several <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">accident-related injuries<\/a> may not present themselves right away.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll want a <span data-term-id=\"53681744\">medical record<\/span> that links your injuries to the accident. This can be critical support for potential <span data-term-id=\"53681724\">medical expense<\/span> claims.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re concerned about paying <span data-term-id=\"53681725\">medical bills<\/span> before you\u2019ve been compensated, talk to your attorney. They may be able to connect you with <span data-term-id=\"53681754\">medical care<\/span> providers who are willing to wait until you receive a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">settlement check<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><span data-term-id=\"53681726\">Insurance <\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\">Claims<\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\"> Process<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After you file your claim, the <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance company<\/span> will investigate the incident, determine liability, and process claims. An <span data-term-id=\"53681734\">insurance adjuster<\/span> may contact you to make a <span data-term-id=\"53681758\">settlement offer<\/span>. While you may be tempted to accept it, this is <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">almost always a <span data-term-id=\"53681753\">lowball<\/span> number<\/a> that doesn&#8217;t cover everything. Getting <span data-term-id=\"53681732\">fair compensation<\/span> for your losses often requires strong evidence.<\/p>\n<h2><span data-term-id=\"53681729\">Gathering Evidence<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Compelling evidence is often necessary to maximize your <span data-term-id=\"53681758\">settlement offer<\/span> from <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance companies<\/span>. Your attorney can be instrumental in collecting key evidence. This might include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681772\">Witness statements<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/obtaining-and-using-a-police-report.html\"><span data-term-id=\"53681739\">Police report<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Surveillance footage<\/li>\n<li>Accident scene\/vehicle damage photos<\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681744\">Medical records<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681759\">Accident reconstruction<\/span> reports<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This evidence helps to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-thats-not-your-fault.html\">establish the at-fault party<\/a> and the seriousness of any <span data-term-id=\"53681773\">car accident injuries<\/span>, which can help you with an <span data-term-id=\"53681726\">insurance claim<\/span> or lawsuit.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Would I File a Lawsuit?<\/h2>\n<p>In most instances, filing a lawsuit is a last resort. Having to go to court is expensive and time-consuming. Enlisting a lawyer early on in your case may help you avoid a lawsuit if they can negotiate a <span data-term-id=\"53681732\">fair compensation<\/span> from insurance.<\/p>\n<p>Your attorney will prepare a demand package for the <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance company<\/span>. This normally contains a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/how-to-demand-payment-in-a-letter.html\">demand letter<\/a>, evidence, and arguments supporting a proposed settlement amount. Settlement negotiations usually follow.<\/p>\n<p>You may need to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-accident-lawsuit-basics.html\">proceed with a lawsuit<\/a> for a variety of reasons. These can include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stalled negotiations<\/li>\n<li>Inadequate <span data-term-id=\"53681758\">settlement offers<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Damages exceeding <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/insurance\/understanding-insurance-limits.html\">policy limits<\/a><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681738\">Serious injuries<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"53681761\">Wrongful death<\/span> claims<\/li>\n<li>Disputed fault<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If the <span data-term-id=\"53681726\">insurance <\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\">claims<\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\"> process<\/span> falls short, your attorney will discuss a potential lawsuit with you. In most cases, these are <span data-term-id=\"53681745\">personal injury lawsuits<\/span>, though they often include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-accident-property-damage-claims-faq.html\"><span data-term-id=\"53681721\">property damage<\/span> claims<\/a> as well.<\/p>\n<p>Negotiations often continue even if you decide to proceed with a lawsuit. Many car accident lawsuits <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/resolution-before-trial-settlement.html\">settle before going to court<\/a>. Your attorney should present you with the pros and cons of the related <span data-term-id=\"53681737\">legal processes<\/span>. They\u2019ll also alert you to important deadlines.<\/p>\n<h2><span data-term-id=\"53681723\">Statute of Limitations<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Every state gives you a certain amount of time to file a <span data-term-id=\"53681749\">personal injury claim<\/span>. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/statutes-of-limitations.html\"><span data-term-id=\"53681723\">statute of limitations<\/span> in most states<\/a> is either two to three years for most <span data-term-id=\"53681736\">personal injury cases<\/span>. If you miss it, you lose your right to compensation. An <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">experienced car accident<\/a> or <span data-term-id=\"53681722\">personal injury lawyer<\/span> should keep track of this ticking clock as they guide you through the <span data-term-id=\"53681726\">insurance <\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\">claims<\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681742\"> process<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2>Do I Always Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident?<\/h2>\n<p>Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to handle the matter yourself. In small <span data-term-id=\"53681766\">fender bender<\/span> cases with no injuries and only minor <span data-term-id=\"53681721\">property damage<\/span>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/what-to-do-after-a-minor-car-accident.html\">you might not need an attorney<\/a> if:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fault for the accident is clear and undisputed<\/li>\n<li>The <span data-term-id=\"53681750\">at-fault driver<\/span>&#8216;s <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance company<\/span> accepts liability and offers a <span data-term-id=\"53681747\">fair settlement<\/span> for your minor repairs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You may still want to get a <span data-term-id=\"53681757\">free case evaluation<\/span> to make sure you\u2019re not missing something. Many car accident and <span data-term-id=\"53681719\">personal injury attorneys<\/span> offer <span data-term-id=\"53681755\">initial consultations<\/span> at no cost. If they don\u2019t anticipate enhancing your recovery, you can likely handle the case yourself.<\/p>\n<h2>Contingency Fee Structure<\/h2>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"53681720\">Car accident attorneys<\/span> tend to work on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/personal-injury\/what-is-a-contingency-fee\/\"><span data-term-id=\"53681767\">contingency fee basis<\/span><\/a>. This means they make money when you make money. You pay them nothing <span data-term-id=\"53681741\">up front<\/span>. Instead, their fee is a percentage of your total settlement amount.<\/p>\n<h2>Choosing the Right Lawyer<\/h2>\n<p>How do you find a lawyer you can trust? For starters, it\u2019s essential to find someone licensed in the state where the accident occurred. State law plays an integral role in <span data-term-id=\"53681731\">car accident cases<\/span>. You want someone who knows the rules well and can file pleadings as necessary.<\/p>\n<p>An <span data-term-id=\"53681752\">experienced <\/span><span data-term-id=\"53681718\">car accident lawyer<\/span> who focuses on <span data-term-id=\"53681736\">personal injury cases<\/span> (or vice versa) is ideal. These attorneys are often skilled negotiators who are well-versed in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/insurance\/insurance-company-bad-faith-tactics-and-examples.html\">patterns and tactics of <span data-term-id=\"53681717\">insurance companies<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Find an attorney with that powerful combination, and make sure their past\/present clients seem pleased with them. That\u2019s who you want helping you with your <span data-term-id=\"53681775\">car accident settlement<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw has compiled a<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> credible directory of car accident<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"53681719\">personal injury attorneys<\/span><\/a> that can help you get started. You can review background and ratings information for experts in the area and those who offer free consultations.<\/p>\n<p>Without <span data-term-id=\"53681735\">legal advice<\/span>, it can be difficult to understand your <span data-term-id=\"53681765\">legal options<\/span>. Getting a professional\u2019s opinion can give you peace of mind and help ensure the best possible resolution for your case.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" 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class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help seek fair compensation on your behalf\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Accident and injury claims are complex and insurance carriers have lawyers on their side\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions about your accident. Many attorneys offer free consultations.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL3905\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input 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rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/after-a-car-accident.html\">\n                        After a Car Accident\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-who-is-liable.html\">\n                        Car Accident Liability\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/pedestrian-accidents.html\">\n                        Pedestrian Accident Law\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Motor Vehicle Accidents Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/wrongful-death-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wrongful Death Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/dui-dwi\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DUI\/DWI Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-defects\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Motor Vehicle Defects Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/truck-accident\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Truck Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Personal Injury Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/auto-dealer-fraud\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Auto Dealer Fraud Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FindLaw explains how to hire a car accident lawyer, covering the importance of legal representation, insurance claims, and maximizing compensation. Learn more now!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":353003,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2734],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-353073","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-injury"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353073","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=353073"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353073\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":398089,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353073\/revisions\/398089"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353003"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=353073"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=353073"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=353073"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=353073"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=353073"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}