After an accident, you know to see a doctor, report what happened and deal with insurance. What you may not know is when to call a personal injury lawyer. Some people try to handle claims on their own, only to realize too late that evidence is gone, an adjuster pushed for a fast release or a deadline shut down their case. Knowing the right time to get legal help can make the difference between moving forward and being left with bills and stress.
When Injuries Seem Small but Don’t Go Away
It’s easy to shrug off a sore neck or a stiff back, but those symptoms can linger or get worse. If pain keeps you from working or enjoying daily life, a lawyer can help document treatment and lost wages. That kind of record matters in cases like car accidents or motorcycle accidents, where insurers often argue your pain is unrelated.
When More Than One Party Is Involved
Accidents are rarely simple. A commercial truck accident might involve the driver, the trucking company and a repair crew. A slip and fall might raise questions about both a store owner and a contractor. When more than one insurer is pointing fingers, you need someone who knows how to sort through fault and preserve the right evidence.
When Alcohol or Drugs Are a Factor
If you were hit by an impaired driver, there’s usually a criminal case alongside the civil one. But criminal charges don’t cover your medical bills, lost income or long-term care. A drunk driver accident claim is its own process, and you’ll want a lawyer who can follow how both cases overlap without letting your rights fall through the cracks.
When a Loved One Is Lost
If a family member dies because of someone else’s negligence, it isn’t just an insurance issue. A wrongful death claim considers future income, emotional loss and the effect on those left behind. These cases often call for expert testimony and careful calculations. A lawyer makes sure your family’s voice is heard in the middle of a painful situation.
When Insurance Pushes Too Hard
Adjusters may seem polite at first, but their job is to save the company money. If you feel pressured to sign a release, make a recorded statement or accept blame, it’s time to stop talking and call a lawyer. Once you give away rights, it’s almost impossible to get them back.
Why Experience Matters
At McLeod & Thompson, you work directly with attorneys who know Florida injury law inside and out. Mike McLeod and Randy Thompson are both Florida Bar Board Certified in Civil Trial Law, a rare distinction that proves trial skill and experience in court. Their results include significant settlements and verdicts that show they can negotiate strongly and take cases to trial when needed.
Why the First Week Matters
The days right after an accident are critical. Photos, video and vehicle data can disappear fast. Witnesses forget details. Doctors need to connect injuries to the accident right away. A personal injury lawyer makes sure this early evidence is preserved so your claim stays strong, even if it never goes before a jury.