Car accidents happen in an instant, but dealing with the aftermath can take weeks—or even months. Medical bills, car repairs, and insurance forms often add extra stress when you’re already trying to heal. That’s why many people ask: Do I need a lawyer for a car accident settlement?
The answer depends on your situation. In simple cases, you might be able to handle things on your own. But if you’re dealing with serious injuries, major vehicle damage, or problems with insurance, having legal help can make a big difference—not just in the result, but in your peace of mind.
If you’ve been in a car accident in Cicero or anywhere in the greater Chicago area, Koch & Associates P.C. is here to help.
Types of Car Accidents That May Lead to a Settlement
Not all accidents are the same. Some result in serious injuries or long-term consequences. Others are more minor and easier to resolve.
Here are some of the most common types of accidents that may lead to a settlement:
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone crashes at intersections
- Head-on collisions
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Collisions involving pedestrians, cyclists, or commercial vehicles
The more serious the crash, the more important it is to make sure your rights are protected.
When Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
You don’t always need a lawyer after a car accident, but in many cases, it’s a smart choice. If you were seriously injured or need ongoing medical treatment, a lawyer can make sure your medical costs are fully included in your claim. The same goes if your car was heavily damaged or totaled.
If the other driver is blaming you or the insurance company won’t cooperate, a car accident lawyer can step in to protect your rights. They can also help you understand your own coverage, which can be confusing. Even if the accident seems straightforward, issues can still come up—especially if multiple vehicles were involved or the other driver has limited insurance.
Can You File a Claim on Your Own?
Yes, you can file a car accident claim without a lawyer, especially if the accident was minor and no one was hurt. But keep in mind: insurance adjusters don’t work for you. Their goal is to close claims quickly and cheaply—often before you know the full extent of your injuries or costs.
Adjusters are focused on protecting their company’s profits, which means they might offer less than what you truly deserve. Without legal guidance, you could feel pressured into accepting a low settlement. Hiring a lawyer gives you someone who’s focused on your best interests—not the insurance company’s.
How Our Attorneys Can Help
Our car accident lawyers take on the legal burdens so you can focus on recovery. Here’s how we can help after a crash:
- Free case evaluation: We’ll review your accident, your insurance coverage, and the damages involved—like medical bills and property damage.
- Accurate claim value: We’ll help you understand how much your claim is worth by factoring in medical costs, lost wages, future care, and more.
- Gathering evidence: We collect important evidence such as witness statements, medical records, vehicle damage assessments, and police reports.
- Insurance communication: We handle all discussions with insurance adjusters, review your coverage, and fight for a fair settlement.
- Sending a demand letter: If needed, we can prepare a demand letter asking the at-fault driver or their insurer to compensate you properly.
In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Our attorneys will make sure you meet all deadlines and keep your case moving forward.
Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve
So, do you need a lawyer for a car accident settlement? If you have injuries, unclear liability, or insurance problems, the answer is probably yes.
With more than 50 years of combined experience and five generations of legal tradition, Koch & Associates P.C. is here to guide you every step of the way. We offer bilingual services in Spanish and provide caring, personalized legal support throughout Cicero and the greater Chicago area.
Call Koch & Associates P.C. today at (708) 656-9900 or schedule your free consultation to speak with our car accident attorneys who always put your needs first.
