Can a Car Crash Lawyer Provide a Free Estimate for My Claim?
Posted on behalf of James Lynch on September 4, 2020 in Car Accident News. Updated on July 11, 2023
Car crash victims may be wary of hiring legal representation without knowing how much compensation they may be eligible for. That is why speaking to a licensed lawyer in a free consultation can be an important step as they consider their legal options.
When you discuss your car accident claim with a knowledgeable lawyer from the Lynch Law Firm, PC, you can ask any questions you may have about your situation, including what the claim might be worth. Depending on the details of your claim, we may be able to give you a reasonable idea of the value of your damages. Our firm offers free initial consultations and there is no obligation to hire us for legal representation, so there is no risk in giving us a call.
When Will I Learn My Claim’s Worth?
Before determining what your claim may be worth, your lawyer will need to review various factors in your situation, which may include:
The Damages You Sustained
As the plaintiff in a car crash claim you could recover three types of damages: economic, non-economic and punitive. Economic damages are out-of-pocket expenses that have a specific value attached to them, such as medical bills, lost wages and property damage.
Your lawyer will need to know the total cost of your injuries and damage to your vehicle.
When calculating the cost of your vehicle repairs, you must consider important details such as:
- The initial price you paid for the vehicle
- Its condition just before the crash occurred
- The mileage on the vehicle at the time of the collision
- The depreciated amount for the vehicle
When it comes to calculating the cost of treating injuries, it is important to remember there is no market value for body parts or types of injuries. For instance, if two different people suffered the same injury, one person may take longer to recover and endure more pain and suffering than the other. The person who suffered more may be eligible for more compensation.
Non-economic damages refer to the physical and psychological suffering you endured. Punitive damages, although rare, are meant to punish at-fault parties for egregious or intentional behavior.
Your Insurance Policy Limits
Since New Jersey is considered a “no-fault” auto insurance state, your own insurance is responsible for covering your damages. However, if you have the minimum coverage at the time of the accident, it may not be enough. Depending on the details of your situation, you may need to pay money out of your own pocket to cover the balance. If the at-fault party is found to have been guilty of gross negligence, such as drunk driving, you may be able to seek punitive damages in addition to economic and non-economic damages.
The Strength of Your Claim
Unless both sides agree with who is at fault and the amount of damages incurred (which is highly unlikely), you and your lawyer will need to prove:
- The other party’s negligence caused the accident and
- The extent and severity of your damages
This means your injury has stabilized and is not expected to further improve, your medical bills are available, property damage assessments are prepared, and your lawyer has gathered all the necessary evidence and concluded his or her investigation. Without having all this information, it may be difficult for your lawyer to provide an accurate estimate for compensation.
Getting the Most for Your Claim
Unfortunately, insurers will do anything to avoid paying the full amount for your damages. Some of the tactics they may use include:
- Claiming that you are fully at fault for the accident
- Stating that you are partially at fault for the crash
- Questioning the severity and cause of your injuries
- Delaying the claims process
The New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lynch Law Firm, PC have decades of legal experience, which means we know how to deal with insurance companies looking to avoid paying compensation.
Speak with a Licensed Attorney Today
If you need legal advice from a reputable attorney, call the Lynch Law Firm, PC today to schedule a Free Case Review. Our firm helps injured victims hold at-fault parties liable for damages.
We have obtained over $300 million in compensation, including $4.5 million for a car accident victim who suffered from a traumatic brain injury.*
There is no obligation to participate in a free consultation and we do not require any upfront payments. We only bill you if we win your case.
Give us a call today. There are no risks or obligations. Phone: (800) 518-0508