You're minding your own business when a car from out of nowhere smashes into yours, leaving you terrified, possibly injured, and with all kinds of damage to your vehicle. If you are like most people who find themselves in this unlucky situation, you will follow all the proper steps to seek treatment, file an accident report, and get in touch with the insurance company. However, how do you know when you should take things a step further and contact a car accident lawyer? There are a few things you should know to answer your question.

Even if you are not injured physically, you may want to call an attorney

Fender benders and small accidents happen a lot, and these incidents don't always mean someone gets physically hurt. In a lot of cases, it is these types of claims that sail right through the claim and payout processes without a hassle. But just because you are not physically injured doesn't mean there is no reason to contact an attorney. You should contact a lawyer if:

• The insurance company seems hesitant to admit their driver was at fault
• The insurance company is delaying your claim 
• The insurance company is difficult to communicate with

Emotional distress can be a standalone personal injury claim

Injuries caused by an auto accident are not always physically obvious. You can be emotionally traumatized by an accident, and emotional trauma is worthy of damage payments even though most insurance companies will avoid recognizing claims. For example, if your car accident has left you so traumatized that you've missed a lot of work, lost your job, or can no longer drive, there could be enough grounds to take the claim to court, so your emotional injuries are properly recognized. 

Every car accident incident is going to have some unfamiliar legal factors

In most cases, just reaching out for an attorney for advice is going to be a good idea after a car accident. The attorney can help you understand unfamiliar legal terms and terms the insurance company may use to try and leave you confused. Therefore, having an attorney to converse with about the case will help ensure you get all you deserve even if you never have to file a personal injury claim.

In conclusion, it never really hurts to have expert advice in any daunting life situation, and a car accident is one of those times. If you have been involved in a car accident, reach out to your local car accident lawyers today.