Hiring a lawyer after you have been in a traffic accident is a very important decision. However, to ensure you get the compensation you deserve, do not work with just any lawyer. Instead, consider hiring a lawyer who is a specialist. If you have been in a crash involving an SUV in West Virginia, you may want to contact an SUV accident lawyer. Like in truck accidents, SUVs are likely to result in more serious injuries than regular passenger cars. This is why you need an experienced West Virginia SUV accident lawyer on your side.
Read on to learn more.
TYPES AND COMMON CAUSES OF SUV ACCIDENTS
Because of their higher center of gravity and bulkiness, SUVs are more prone to certain types of accidents. However, sports utility vehicles can still be involved in the same types of accidents as other vehicles. Common types of accidents include:
- Vehicle rollover
- Head-on collisions
- Side-impact collisions
- Sideswipe collisions
- Rear-end collisions
Now that you know the different types of SUV accidents, you should learn the various factors that can lead to crashes. Some causes of these car accidents are:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drunk and drugged driving
- Road rage and reckless driving
- Tailgating
- Poor weather
- Road hazards
- Auto defects
- Tire blowouts
WHAT TO DO AFTER BEING INVOLVED IN AN SUV ACCIDENT
When you find yourself in a collision, there are certain steps you need to take to protect yourself. To do this effectively, you have to know the appropriate procedure beforehand. Here’s what you should do.
Avoid saying the wrong things: Ensure you do not leave the crash scene before the police arrive. While at the scene, do not admit fault, apologize, blame others or discuss specific details of the accident.
Call the police: In West Virginia, you are legally required to call the police and report the accident. Remember to file a police report and request a copy of the document.
Document the incident: If you can safely do so, gather as much evidence as you can at the scene of the crash. Relevant evidence will help you build a strong case.
See a doctor: This will allow you to get proper medical care and obtain official documentation of any injuries you may have sustained due to the crash.
Notify your insurance provider: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Be careful about what you say to ensure you do not jeopardize your claim.
Contact a lawyer: Navigating the complex legal issues associated with an SUV accident case can be challenging. Be sure to speak to a personal injury lawyer about your case.
WHAT DOES AN SUV ACCIDENT LAWYER DO?
Before hiring an auto accident lawyer, you need to know what exactly the attorney will do. This will help you choose the best West Virginia SUV accident lawyer for your case. Below is part of what your lawyer will do.
EXPLAIN YOUR LEGAL OPTIONS
Several legal options may be available if you have been injured in a road accident. Your lawyer will explain these options and provide expert legal advice. This will help you make informed decisions, including choosing the best legal option for you.
HELP YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR RIGHTS
Most people in West Virginia are not familiar with the applicable accident and injury laws. As such, they do not know what their full rights are. A good lawyer will help you understand your legal rights and work hard to see that your rights are protected.
NEGOTIATE FOR A FAIR SETTLEMENT
It takes skills and experience to successfully negotiate a fair settlement. Your lawyer will build a strong case for you and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. This will help you get the settlement amount you truly deserve.
REPRESENT YOU IN COURT
If the insurance company refuses to negotiate or you cannot reach an agreement, your lawyer will represent you in court. The attorney will also keep you updated throughout the process and answer any questions you may have.
WHEN TO CONTACT A WEST VIRGINIA SUV ACCIDENT LAWYER
Considering the critical role that a lawyer plays, it is always important to contact a legal expert after an accident. However, there are certain situations where you should be sure to hire an attorney. Contact an SUV accident lawyer if:
- You are not sure of the correct steps to take following the accident
- You have suffered severe injuries as a result of the crash
- The accident results in a wrongful death
- Liability is disputed
- There are multiple at-fault parties
- You are finding it difficult to deal with stubborn insurance companies
- You need legal advice and guidance
HOW CAN A WEST VIRGINIA SUV ACCIDENT LAWYER HELP?
Working with a lawyer will go a long way in enabling you to get the right compensation. The legal expert will help you:
- Gather evidence that is difficult to get. This will make it easier to determine who was at fault
- Assess the full extent of your damages. This includes both special and general damages.
- Get expert witnesses to explain complex issues and help you prove your case
- Ensure you do not get taken advantage of by the insurance companies
- Make sure your case is handled with the utmost care in terms of paperwork and the timelines for filing your claim.
Any car accident can make for a stressful situation. A good West Virginia SUV accident lawyer will provide the legal representation and emotional support you need as you go through the tough time. This will ensure you have ample time to focus on your recovery.
