Ryan Bradley | April 11, 2025 | Car Accident
If you were involved in a recent car accident, you may ask yourself: Do I really need a lawyer? The truth is, not every crash requires legal help—but many do. In this Bradley Law blog post, we will answer the most common questions people have after an accident, so you can determine the proper course of action for yourself and your family after a crash.
Do I need a lawyer if the accident wasn’t my fault?
Yes, you probably do. Even if fault seems clear, insurance companies are notorious for minimizing payouts by baselessly claiming you were partially at-fault. For instance, if you were not wearing your seatbelt, the insurance company may attempt to reduce what they pay you. however, under Missouri law, the maximum amount you can be found at fault for not wearing a seat belt is 1%. A car accident lawyer will ensure your rights are protected and will prevent you from being duped by insurance adjusters. Lawyers will help you get full compensation for related medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering.
What if I wasn’t injured — should I still talk to a lawyer?
Yes, especially if you’re unsure whether you’ve been injured. Some symptoms don’t appear right away. Injuries like whiplash or concussions (which can cause life-long problems) don’t appear right away. A personal injury lawyer can advise you on medical documentation and what to watch for in the days following a crash.
Can I settle my car accident claim without a lawyer?
You can, but it may end up costing you big time. Have you ever heard of the old saying “stepping over dollars to pick up pennies?” This saying applies to settling any injury case without a lawyer. Insurance adjusters are trained and even paid large bonuses when they get people to take early settlements, which saves the company money. Without a lawyer, you will undoubtedly get lowballed. Once you sign the release, you give up all legal rights and cannot come back for more if you find out you were hurt more than what you believed in the days after the crash.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?
It really depends. At Bradley Law, we never counsel anyone to get medical treatment unless it is justified. If the accident was indeed minor and you are certain you sustained no injury, you might not need legal help. But, if there is property damage, dispute over fault, or injury symptoms later on, having a lawyer on your side is a smart move. Everyone in a crash has a right to get evaluated by trained medical doctors after a crash.
When is a lawyer most helpful after a crash?
A lawyer can help you most when the following are present:
- There are real injuries or medical treatment involved
- Fault is disputed between the parties
- You’re being blamed (either wholly or partially) for the crash
- The insurance company delays or denies your claim, which could give rise to other causes of action like vexatious refusal
- A commercial vehicle or rideshare company like Uber or Lyft is involved
Final Thoughts
If you’re asking yourself if you need a lawyer after a car accident, the safest answer is: Talk to one. Consultations are always free of charge and you risk nothing by getting competent legal advice. But going alone without a lawyer thinking you can save a few dollars? That bad decision can end up costing you thousands. If you need help coming up with a list of questions to ask your lawyer after a car accident, check our our blog post on that.
At Bradley Law, we fight for accident victims across Missouri and Illinois. Let us review your case and show you how we can help.
Contact us today for a free legal consultation on your car accident case.