Understanding the Role of a Personal Injury Attorney
If you find yourself involved in a motorcycle, pedestrian, bicycle, or auto accident caused by someone else, it’s important to know when you might need legal aid. In such cases, seeking the assistance of a personal injury attorney is highly recommended. They specialize in helping individuals who have suffered serious injuries due to the negligence of others. However, if you were the cause of the accident, the situation calls for a different approach.
Taking Responsibility: What to Do When You Are at Fault
Let’s say you were driving your car, riding your bike, or motorcycle and you accidentally struck someone or collided with another vehicle. It’s not uncommon for individuals in this situation to panic and assume they need a personal injury attorney. However, if you were at fault and caused injury to another person, what you truly need is a defense attorney.
When you injure someone, it is highly likely that the injured party will seek representation from a personal injury lawyer. In such cases, you will need your own attorney to represent you and defend your rights.
The Importance of Prompt Action
If you are responsible for an accident and have insurance, the first step is to report the incident to your insurance company immediately. They have legal professionals who will guide you through the process. However, if you are uninsured, it is essential to seek the services of a personal injury defense attorney right away.
Please note that most personal injury attorneys, like myself, exclusively represent injury victims. Therefore, it is crucial to find a defense attorney with expertise in personal injury cases. Remember, your objective is to find an attorney who specializes in defending individuals who cause injury accidents, not a personal injury attorney.
The Role of Your Insurance Company
Having valid insurance coverage is essential. If you have insurance, your insurance company will handle the claim against you on behalf of the injured party, minimizing your direct involvement. You may be required to provide a statement of facts to the insurance adjuster handling your claim. In most cases, this is where your involvement ends. However, if the case escalates to a lawsuit due to your insurance company’s refusal to provide a fair settlement, they will appoint a defense attorney to represent you. As a named defendant in the case, your insurance company will cover the costs of your legal defense.
Understanding the Purpose of Liability Insurance
Your insurance coverage serves as protection in case you cause an accident and injure someone. It is crucial to carry sufficient liability insurance to ensure that your insurance company can provide and pay for your defense in the unlikely event of an accident caused by you. While you might have to answer discovery questions, give a deposition, or even appear at trial, there is no need to personally hire a defense attorney if you are at fault.
To ensure you are adequately covered in case of an accident, it is recommended that you contact your insurance agent. They can review your auto insurance coverage and discuss the possibility of obtaining an umbrella policy to protect your assets in the event of a claim. Remember, if you were responsible for the accident, you do not need a personal injury lawyer. Instead, reach out to your insurance carrier, and let them handle the legal matters, as the injured party may have already engaged their own personal injury attorney.
For more information on legal services related to car accidents, visit Garrity Traina.