Not every car accident requires a lawyer. If you were injured, fault is disputed, or the other driver’s insurer is pressing you for a recorded statement or a quick settlement, speak with an attorney early.
Does Every Car Accident Require a Lawyer?
If your car accident involved no injuries, only minor property damage, clear fault, and an insurer paying promptly, you may be comfortable resolving it yourself.
If you are unsure whether you were injured or what a settlement would resolve, consider getting advice before settling the claim.
When Might an Attorney Help?
Consider speaking with a lawyer if any of the following situations sound familiar.
Your Injuries Are Affecting Your Daily Life
You are receiving ongoing treatment for injuries caused or worsened by the car accident, your symptoms are not improving, or those injuries make it difficult to sleep, drive, work, or care for your family.
You Are Missing Work or Earning Less
Your injuries have kept you out of work, reduced your hours, or prevented you from returning to your usual duties.
The Other Driver or Insurer Is Blaming You
The other driver disputes what happened, or an insurance adjuster says you caused the accident.
You Have Received a Settlement Offer
Bills and pressure from an adjuster can make a quick settlement appealing. Before accepting, understand whether the offer covers your injuries and losses. Make sure you also understand which claims you would give up by signing the release.
The Other Driver’s Insurer Wants a Recorded Statement
Get legal advice before giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. Do not ignore requests from your own insurer. Your policy may require you to cooperate, including providing a statement. If you are unsure what is required, seek advice promptly so you can meet your policy obligations.
The Insurance Company Is Questioning or Denying Your Claim
The adjuster disputes whether the accident caused your injuries, points to a preexisting condition, or denies coverage.
There May Not Be Enough Insurance
The other driver may be uninsured, or the available coverage may be insufficient for your injuries and losses. Other insurance may apply, depending on the policies and circumstances.
The Accident Involved a Commercial or Rideshare Vehicle
Accidents involving commercial or rideshare vehicles, such as Uber or Lyft, may raise additional questions about responsible parties and insurance coverage.
A Family Member Died in the Accident
If a family member died from accident injuries, prompt legal guidance can help you understand who may bring a claim and what deadlines apply.
What Does an Attorney Do?
An attorney can investigate who caused the accident, gather medical and income records, evaluate your claim, and negotiate with insurers. If settlement negotiations do not resolve the claim, an attorney can assess whether to file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
What Vermont Rules Could Affect Your Decision?
Being Partly at Fault Does Not Automatically Bar a Claim
Being partly at fault does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation. Under Vermont law, you may recover if your negligence is not greater than the combined negligence of the defendant or defendants that caused the accident. Your compensation is reduced in proportion to your share of fault. Do not assume that an insurer’s claim that you share blame means you have no case.
Filing Deadlines Make Early Advice Important
Vermont generally requires personal-injury lawsuits to be filed within three years after discovery of the injury. Wrongful-death actions generally must be filed within two years from discovery of the death. Exceptions and claim-specific requirements can affect these deadlines. Do not wait until a deadline approaches to seek advice.
What If You Are Still Receiving Treatment or Do Not Know How Serious Your Injuries Are?
You do not have to finish treatment before speaking with a lawyer.
If you do not know whether you will need more treatment or when you can return to work, you may not yet understand the full extent of your losses. A lawyer cannot predict your recovery, but can help identify the medical information needed to evaluate a settlement.
What Can You Expect During an Initial Call?
During an initial call, we can discuss the accident, your injuries, and your concerns. I can explain whether I may be able to assist, what information I need to review, and the next steps. You can ask about fees, expenses, and representation.
If available, have the accident date, insurance correspondence, and basic treatment information nearby—but you do not need to gather every record before calling.
Injured in a Car Accident in Vermont?
You do not have to navigate the insurance claims process alone. If you were injured in a Vermont car accident and are unsure whether you need a lawyer, I can help you understand your options.
No fee unless we win: You pay no attorney’s fee unless I recover compensation for you through a settlement or judgment.
Call me at (802) 556-3582 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Learn more about my car, truck, and bicycle injury practice.
This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every car accident claim depends on its facts, medical evidence, insurance coverage, and applicable deadlines. If you need advice about your particular situation, you should consult an attorney.
