If you were hit by a vehicle while walking in Tennessee, the best time to call a pedestrian accident attorney in Nashville is as soon as possible after the accident. This is true for a number of reasons, including that state law only gives you one year to file a personal injury lawsuit in most cases. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of building a successful case that actually compensates you in full for what you’ve endured.
Read on for more details about when and why reaching out to a personal injury lawyer should be a priority.
When the Insurance Company Contacts You
One of the first things that tends to happen after a pedestrian accident is a call from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They may sound sympathetic and helpful, but their goal is to settle your claim for as little as possible. It’s important to proceed very carefully when corresponding with them as a result.
If an insurance adjuster has already reached out, that alone is a good reason to call an attorney before you respond. Anything you say to the insurer can be used against you later, and once you accept a settlement, you give up the right to pursue additional compensation even if your injuries turn out to be worse than you initially thought.
When Your Injuries Are Serious
Some pedestrian accident injuries are immediately obvious; others may take days or weeks to fully reveal themselves. Brain injuries and psychological conditions like PTSD don’t always present clear symptoms right away but can sometimes end up being the most significant part of your claim when all is said and done.
If you’re still receiving treatment or if your doctor hasn’t given you a clear prognosis yet, having an attorney involved ensures that your case accounts for the full picture. Settling too early, before you know the true extent of your injuries, is one of the most common mistakes accident victims make.
When Fault Is Being Disputed
Insurance companies frequently try to shift blame onto the pedestrian. Under Tennessee’s modified comparative fault law, being assigned 50% or more of the responsibility means you recover nothing at all.
If there’s any dispute about who caused the accident, getting a lawyer involved quickly gives them time to gather evidence and document the scene on your behalf before important details are lost.
When You’re Facing Financial Pressure
Medical bills and lost wages can pile up fast after a pedestrian accident. That financial pressure can make it tempting to accept the first settlement offer that comes along, even if it doesn’t come close to covering what you’re actually owed. An attorney can help you understand the true value of your case so you don’t sell yourself short out of desperation.
Contact a Tennessee Pedestrian Accident Lawyer With Woodard Injury Law for Help
At the end of the day, it’s best to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in Tennessee for help as soon as you suspect you have a valid claim. Call Woodard Injury Law today at (615) 640-3648 contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We can review the facts of your case and offer you some preliminary legal advice at that time.