After a car accident, one of the first questions many people ask is: “Do I really need a lawyer for this?” Insurance companies often make it seem like hiring an attorney is unnecessary—or even a hassle. But their only priority is protecting their bottom line, not your recovery. In reality, the lawyer you choose can mean the difference between securing the maximum compensation possible and walking away with substantially less than you deserve.
At Zehl & Associates, we know the outcome of a car accident case often comes down to one thing: having a legal team with the resources and experience to take on the largest companies and insurers in the world—and not just win, but set records.
With Billions recovered for injury victims and an undefeated trial record, our firm has secured some of the largest verdicts and settlements in Texas history by holding reckless drivers, trucking companies, and insurers fully accountable. We understand what’s at stake after a serious crash, and we never back down until justice is delivered and our clients’ futures are protected.
Below, we answer the most common questions to help you decide whether hiring a car accident lawyer is worth it.
Do I Need a Lawyer for Every Car Accident?
Not every accident requires an attorney. If the crash was minor, no one was injured, and property damage is minimal, you may be able to handle the claim on your own.
However, if any of the following apply, speaking with a lawyer is strongly recommended:
- You suffered injuries (even if they seem minor at first)
- Medical treatment is ongoing or expensive
- Fault is disputed
- An insurance company denies or undervalues your claim
- You missed work or may have long-term limitations
In these situations, a lawyer can protect your rights and prevent costly mistakes.
What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Actually Do?
A car accident lawyer handles much more than paperwork.
Their role typically includes:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Communicating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Calculating the true value of your damages
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Filing a lawsuit and going to trial if necessary
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney levels the playing field and ensures your claim is taken seriously.
Will a Lawyer Really Increase My Settlement?
In many cases, yes. Studies and real-world outcomes consistently show that injured victims represented by attorneys recover significantly more compensation than those who go it alone—even after legal fees.
Why? Because lawyers understand how to value claims beyond just medical bills. They factor in pain and suffering, future treatment, lost earning capacity, and long-term effects that insurers often ignore or downplay.
What If the Insurance Company Already Made an Offer?
An early settlement offer is not a sign the insurance company is being generous—it’s often the opposite. Initial offers are usually far below the true value of the claim and are designed to close the case before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
Once you accept a settlement, you typically give up the right to seek more compensation later, even if new medical issues arise. A lawyer can evaluate whether an offer is fair or push for significantly more.
How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis.
That means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- Legal fees are only collected if your lawyer wins
- The fee is a percentage of the recovery
This arrangement allows injured people to get high-quality legal representation without financial risk.
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
Even if you think you may share some responsibility, you should still talk to a lawyer. Many states allow injured victims to recover compensation even if they were partially at fault, as long as they meet certain legal thresholds.
Insurance companies often exaggerate a victim’s fault to reduce payouts. An attorney can challenge those claims and protect your ability to recover damages.
When Should I Contact a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
The sooner, the better. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and insurance companies move quickly to protect their interests. Consulting a lawyer early helps preserve your claim and avoids missteps—like giving recorded statements or signing documents you don’t fully understand.
Contact Zehl & Associates for a Free Consultation
If your accident involved injuries, disputed fault, or pushback from an insurance company, getting legal help can make all the difference. The Undefeated Houston car accident lawyers at Zehl & Associates have the experience, resources, and proven results to take on even the toughest cases and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Let an experienced legal team handle the insurance companies, paperwork, and negotiations while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how we can protect your rights and maximize your claim.
We proudly serve Harris County, Midland County, and throughout the state of Texas. We are located in Houston and Midland and throughout the state of Texas:
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
Open 24 hours
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
Open 24 hours