Yes, you should absolutely get a lawyer if you were in a car accident that wasn’t your fault. Even if the collision was clearly caused by someone else’s negligence, facing the aftermath without legal support can leave you vulnerable to insurance tactics, inadequate compensation, and overlooked legal rights.
Hiring an experienced Kansas City car accident lawyer levels the playing field and ensures you’re fully protected, both financially and legally. Learn more about getting a car accident lawyer for an accident that wasn’t your fault here.
Why Fault Matters But Isn’t Everything
You might think that if the accident wasn’t your fault, the process should be straightforward. The other driver’s insurance should pay your damages, and that should be the end of it. Unfortunately, that’s rarely how it works in practice.
Insurance companies are businesses focused on minimizing payouts, not providing justice. Even if their client was clearly at fault, insurers often look for ways to reduce what they owe.
They may claim you were partially responsible, question the extent of your injuries, or offer a quick, lowball settlement in the hopes that you’ll take it before understanding the full scope of your damages.
The Hidden Costs of “Minor” Accidents
Even so-called “minor” accidents can lead to long-term consequences. You might not feel injured immediately, but many injuries, like whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, and soft tissue damage, can develop symptoms days or even weeks later.
Without legal representation in your corner, you may settle for far less than what you’ll ultimately need for treatment and a full recovery. An experienced personal injury attorney can help assess the true value of your claim, including:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
Don’t Let the Insurance Company Control the Narrative
One of the biggest reasons to get a lawyer after an accident that wasn’t your fault is so you can protect your story. Insurance adjusters are trained to use your words against you.
When you have a lawyer, they handle communication with the insurance companies. They know what to say—and more importantly, what not to say—to protect your claim. This alone can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Preserving Evidence is Crucial
If you’re not represented by an attorney, it’s easy to miss important opportunities to preserve key evidence. Surveillance footage, accident reports, witness statements, and even vehicle data can be lost over time.
A car accident lawyer in Kansas City knows what to look for and how to secure it quickly. Sometimes, they will even hire investigators or accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case for fair compensation.
How Lawyers Help Maximize Your Compensation
Data shows that accident victims with legal representation consistently receive higher settlement amounts than those who go it alone. That’s because lawyers understand how to do the following:
- Build a compelling case with the right documentation and professional support.
- Negotiate assertively with insurers.
- File a lawsuit when negotiations stall.
- Take your case to trial if needed.
Without this knowledge and experience, most individuals accept far less than what they’re owed, especially when pressured by insurers eager to close the case quickly.
Common Myths That Keep People From Hiring a Lawyer
There are many reasons why some people are hesitant to partner with a car accident attorney, including the following:
- “Lawyers are too expensive.” Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they don’t get paid unless you win. This makes legal help accessible to everyone.
- “I don’t want to go to court.” Most car accident claims settle out of court. Having a lawyer increases your chances of reaching a favorable settlement without ever stepping into a courtroom.
- “My case is simple.” Even seemingly straightforward cases can get complicated fast. An attorney helps avoid costly mistakes and oversights.
When to Contact a Car Crash Lawyer
Ideally, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident, and it’s best to do so before speaking with the insurance company or signing any documents. The earlier you get legal advice, the better your chances of preserving critical evidence and maximizing your compensation.
Some red flags that indicate you need a lawyer include:
- Serious injuries or high medical bills
- Multiple parties being involved in the accident
- Disputes about which driver was at fault
- Delays, denials, or low settlement offers from the insurance company
- You’re unsure of how to calculate damages or losses
Let Our Car Accident Attorneys in Kansas City Protect Your Rights
Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault? The answer is yes. At Foster Wallace Personal Injury Lawyers, we know how to deal with insurance companies, negotiate fair settlements, and—when necessary—fight in court to get our clients the justice they deserve. For more information, visit our FAQ page.
