Should I Get a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident in Memphis, TN?

Deciding if you need legal representation after a minor automobile accident is largely contingent on the accident's particulars. Some low-impact collisions can be dealt with adequately without the services of an attorney, but there are also many instances where hiring a lawyer is a smart and valuable move.

If you are asking “should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident in Memphis, TN?” here are some of the reasons you might want to consider calling an attorney after a seemingly low-stakes accident.

Assessing the Severity of the Accident

When you first look at it, a minor car accident might not seem to need any legal help. If the property is mostly okay and the people involved seem to be fine, then why not settle with the insurance companies without any lawyers involved? On the surface, that seems easy and reasonable.

But we all know that looks can be deceiving. Yes, some people do seem to walk away from an accident unscathed, only to develop medical issues later. With that possibility, it's better to have a good lawyer on your side ahead of time.

Understanding Tennessee's Comparative Fault Laws

A modified comparative fault rule is what Tennessee has. Even if you’re partially at fault, you can still recover damages. But there’s a limit: You can’t be more than 50% responsible for the accident. This makes minor accident claims a little trickier because insurance companies will often try to assign some percentage of fault to you so they can reduce the amount they pay out.

Having an attorney to advocate for you can ensure that your claim is properly assessed. And if your claim comes down to a disputed liability situation, it can make a huge difference in the outcome.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Working with insurance companies can be a challenge and, at times, even a hassle. This reason alone answers the question of “should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident in Memphis, TN?” with an emphatic “yes”.

Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and one way they do that is by paying out as little as possible in claims, even when it is legally or morally required. If you have suffered an accident due to the negligence of another person, you have the right to expect that person's insurance company to pay for your damages.

Legal Advice Can Offer Peace of Mind

Most personal injury attorneys in Memphis offer free consultations. This allows you to talk through the particulars of your accident and get some legal advice about what to do next - all at no cost to you. Whether or not you decide to hire a lawyer, consulting with one can be a good way to dispel uncertainty and gain clarity about your situation.