Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident? | California

How serious were your injuries?

What are your estimated total damages?

Is liability (fault) clearly established?

Does the at-fault driver have insurance?

Has the insurance company made an offer?

Are you still receiving medical treatment?

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You Can Likely Handle This Yourself

For minor accidents with clear liability and limited damages, you can often negotiate directly with the insurance company and get a fair settlement.

Why DIY may work:

Clear liability = less to argue about
Minor injuries = straightforward damages calculation
Insurance company has less incentive to fight small claims
You keep 100% of settlement (no attorney fees)

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You Should Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

Your case has significant value and/or complexity. Studies show accident victims with attorneys receive 3-4x higher settlements on average, even after attorney fees.

Why an attorney is recommended:

Serious injuries require expert damages calculation
Insurance companies lowball unrepresented claimants
Disputed liability needs investigation
Future medical costs are hard to value without expertise
Statute of limitations is 2 years - don't delay

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Consider a Consultation

Your case is in a gray area. Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency - consider getting professional advice on your specific situation.

Recommended approach:

Get a consultation with 1-2 attorneys
Don't accept any insurance offer until treatment is complete
If you decide to proceed alone, send a formal demand letter
Remember: you can hire an attorney at any point

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California Car Accident Claims: DIY vs. Attorney

Important: Statute of Limitations

In California, you have 2 years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Don't wait too long to decide.

When You Can Handle It Yourself

Property damage only: No injuries, just car repairs
Minor injuries: Fully recovered, clear liability, damages under $10K
Clear-cut rear-end accidents: Other driver obviously at fault
Fair offer received: Insurance offer covers all your actual damages

When You Need an Attorney

Serious injuries: Surgery, long recovery, permanent effects
Disputed liability: Insurance blaming you or disputing fault
Low policy limits: At-fault driver underinsured
Uninsured motorist: Requires UM claim against your own insurer
Insurance bad faith: Unreasonable delays or denial
Future damages: Ongoing treatment, lost earning capacity

The Math: Attorney Fees vs. Higher Settlement

Scenario	DIY Settlement	With Attorney (33% fee)	You Keep
Minor accident	$5,000	$7,500	$5,025 (slight gain)
Moderate injury	$15,000	$40,000	$26,800 (big gain)
Serious injury	$50,000	$150,000	$100,500 (huge gain)

Note: These are illustrative examples. Actual results vary by case.

What an Attorney Does for You

Investigates the accident (police reports, witnesses, scene photos)
Gathers all medical records and bills
Calculates full damages including future costs
Negotiates with insurance adjusters
Files lawsuit if necessary to get fair compensation
Works on contingency - no upfront cost to you

Do I Need a Lawyer for My Car Accident?