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Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

By William J. Price

When you’re trying to get back on your feet after a serious accident, there is no substitute for the advice of an experienced lawyer. Family, friends, and acquaintances may have your best interests in mind, but they often overlook issues that could hurt the value of your claim and leave you with bills you can’t afford to cover.

The following example demonstrates why it’s important to work with a Columbus car accident lawyer if you’re injured in a crash.

Why you should speak with a lawyer after a car crash

Jane (real name not disclosed) was involved in a serious head-on collision. She has a six-year-old daughter, works for a local retail store, and rents an apartment in Cleveland, Ohio. She injures her left shoulder, neck, head, and lower back in the accident. After going to the emergency room and following up with a primary care doctor, she begins therapy. Then, her primary care doctor says a specialist should look at her shoulder, which is not healing well.

Jane returns to work after two weeks of unpaid leave, putting her behind on rent and car payments. She has never worked with an insurance company before and doesn’t speak to a lawyer. After several discussions with the adjuster, she takes the advice of a family member and quickly settles the claim with the insurance company to catch up on her bills.

The week after her settlement, Jane visits the specialist, where she finds out she needs shoulder surgery to fix a partial tear to her rotator cuff. She calls the adjuster, who tells her the case is resolved and they’re not willing to cover any other expenses.

Jane calls an attorney and asks what can be done. After a review of her settlement release, she is told there are no other legal options.

Before settling any case with an insurance carrier, always speak with an experienced lawyer.

About Elk & Elk Attorney William J. Price

William J. Price focuses his practice on personal injury litigation for people who have been seriously injured or killed as a result of medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, defective products, negligence in construction sites, and trucking and auto accidents. He has been recognized by Super Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, AVVO, and is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Million Dollar Advocates Forum.