Can I afford a lawyer?

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means their fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or award. You generally pay no upfront attorney fees. Fee arrangements are between you and the attorney you choose. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible regardless of your financial situation.

What if my case is "too small"?

Many people worry their case is not significant enough for an attorney, but you might be surprised. What seems like a minor accident can involve injuries that worsen over time, leading to unexpected medical costs. A free consultation can help you understand the true value of your case. There is no downside to asking.

When is it too late to call a lawyer?

In Sample State, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally 2 years from the date of the accident. However, the sooner you consult with an attorney, the better. Evidence can be lost, witnesses become harder to locate, and insurance companies may become less willing to negotiate fairly over time. If your accident was recent, now is the best time to reach out.

Why should I hire a Sample City attorney specifically?

A local Sample City attorney knows the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters. They can meet with you in person and understand the specific challenges of accidents in the Sample City area.

Do I Need a Lawyer After My Car Accident in {cityName}?

Here's how to decide, and what you might be leaving on the table in {stateName}

Start Your Case

100% Free Takes 2 Minutes Available 24/7 $0 Out of Pocket

100% Free

No cost to you, ever

Takes 2 Minutes

Quick and confidential

Available 24/7

Call or submit anytime

$0 Out of Pocket

Our service is always free to you

73% of people spend 3+ days searching for an attorney. We do the searching for you.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

Answer 6 quick questions to find out.

Question 1 of 60%

Were you injured in the accident?

When You Might NOT Need a Lawyer

Not every accident requires an attorney. If any of the following describe your situation, you may be able to handle things on your own:

It was a minor fender bender with no injuries

Liability is clear and undisputed

Your insurance company is cooperating and offering a fair settlement

Damage is limited to minor vehicle repairs only

Even in these situations, if anything feels off or the insurance company starts giving you the runaround, it does not hurt to get a free consultation.

When You Probably DO Need a Lawyer

If any of the following apply, working with an attorney could make a significant difference in your outcome:

You were injured and need medical treatment

The insurance company is being difficult, delaying, or denying your claim

You have significant medical bills piling up

You missed work and lost income due to the accident

The insurance company offered a quick settlement (this is often a red flag)

Multiple parties or vehicles were involved

A commercial vehicle (semi-truck, delivery van) was involved

There is a dispute about who was at fault

Handling It Yourself vs. Working With an Attorney

Factor

On Your Own

With an Attorney

Time Investment

High: you handle all calls, paperwork, and deadlines

Low: your attorney manages the process for you

Insurance Negotiation

You negotiate directly with trained adjusters

An experienced negotiator advocates on your behalf

Average Settlement

Studies suggest lower settlements without representation

Attorneys often recover significantly more, even after fees

Medical Bill Coordination

You coordinate payments and liens on your own

Attorney negotiates with providers and manages liens

Legal Deadlines

You must track all filing deadlines yourself

Attorney ensures all deadlines and requirements are met

This comparison is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Still not sure if you need a lawyer in {cityName}?

A free case review takes just a few minutes and can give you clarity on your options.

Start the Process

Or call now: (773) 839-6086

No Obligation

Zero pressure consultation

To Use Our Service

Always free — no hidden fees

0/7

Available

Call or submit anytime

0.5x

Higher Settlements

With attorney representation

Frequently Asked Questions

100% FREE

Find Out If You Need a Lawyer in {cityName}

Tell us what happened and we'll help you understand your options, completely free.

Your Information

First Name *

Last Name *

Phone *

Email (optional)

Accident Details

Type of Accident *

When did it happen? *

Medical Treatment

Have you received medical treatment? *

Do you already have an attorney? *

I agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy and consent to be contacted by telephone (including automated calls and pre-recorded messages), text message, and email by ThatCarHitMe, its service providers, and participating attorney partners regarding my inquiry, even if my number is on a Do Not Call list. I understand my information will be shared with attorneys and service providers in our network to evaluate my case. *

I agree to receive text messages about my case (optional)

By submitting, your information will be shared with licensed attorneys and service providers in our network. This is a free service with no obligation. ThatCarHitMe is not a law firm.

NO OBLIGATION

24HR RESPONSE

This is a free service with no obligation. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. Fee arrangements are between you and the attorney you choose.

Generated City Pages (1672)

▶

All city-specific pages using this template:

URL slugs: can-i-handle-my-claim-myself, do-i-need-a-lawyer-after-a-car-accident, how-long-to-call-a-lawyer-after-a-accident, should-i-call-a-lawyer-after-a-car-accident, should-i-talk-to-a-lawyer-after-crash, what-happens-if-i-wait-to-contact-a-lawyer, when-should-i-contact-a-lawyer-after-a-crash, why-hire-a-car-accident-lawyer

ILIllinois (209)