Personal Injury | December 23, 2025 by JOSHUA D. ANDERSON

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

It’s normal to wonder if you should get a lawyer for a car accident, especially when the accident isn’t your fault. However, determining fault isn’t always straightforward, and even if it seems that way to you, the insurance company may not agree.

If you’ve been in a car accident and are wondering, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?” The answer is probably yes. But why? This guide tells you everything you need to know.

Who’s At Fault for a Car Accident?

Determining who’s at fault for a car accident is generally based on who caused it. Sometimes, the fault is obvious, like when a driver:

• Was texting while driving
• Didn’t have the right of way
• Was diving aggressively or recklessly
• Didn’t obey traffic signs

Especially when there’s evidence, like dash cam footage or eyewitnesses, fault is usually clear-cut.

Other times, identifying the at-fault driver isn’t as obvious. For example, if the accident happened in a construction zone, the city or contractor may be at fault for the accident. Or if a pedestrian was crossing against the light, fault may be a little murkier. Even if you’re certain you’re not at fault for the accident, determining who and how much can get complicated when third parties are involved.

Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Is Worth It — Even When You’re Not the At-Fault Driver

While you don’t have to hire a lawyer or personal injury attorney to handle your car accident case, you may want to consider it anyway, even when the auto accident is clearly not your fault. A minor auto accident can still create medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses you may not be able to afford. A car accident lawyer will handle every aspect of your car accident claim and negotiate with the insurance company while you focus on recovering.

Here are some of the ways a car accident lawyer can make life easier for you.

Investigate

You may be certain the other driver is responsible for the car accident, but that’s likely not enough for the insurance company. A car accident lawyer will investigate everything for you and gather evidence that supports your claim. They may:

• Collect and review the police report or other accident report
• Talk to eyewitnesses and look for video evidence
• Compile your medical records to strengthen your case

Handle the Insurance Claim Process

Even when it’s clear the other driver is 100% at fault for the car accident, dealing with the insurance company can be a complex and overwhelming process. Your attorney will handle everything for you, submitting your evidence and medical records and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and medical expenses.

Maximize Compensation

One of the more challenging aspects of negotiating with the insurance company is ensuring you’re compensated for all of your expenses. Calculating the total of your current bills and outstanding expenses may be simple, but an experienced attorney knows how to negotiate for your future expenses, like paying for any additional or ongoing medical treatment you may need.

Your attorney will also recover compensation for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and, depending on the circumstances, long-term medical care. 

When You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer

Even when you’re not at fault for the car accident, the circumstances and long-term impact it has on your life may make your claim complex. You should hire a lawyer for a car accident claim when:

• You’ve suffered serious injuries, have a permanent injury, or a loved one has died
• The insurance company disputes or denies your insurance claim
• The at-fault driver won’t take responsibility for the car accident or tries to blame you
• The police report is vague, contains inaccuracies, or doesn’t exist
• A third party was involved in the car accident
• The other driver is underinsured or uninsured

In these situations, having an experienced, knowledgeable attorney on your side ensures your rights are protected throughout the claims and legal process and that the insurance company or at-fault driver fairly compensates you for your damages.

Anderson Law | Injury Attorneys Can Help

One other reason you should hire a car accident attorney is to ensure you’ve got someone on your side, protecting your legal rights and fighting for the full compensation you’ll need to physically and financially recover after the accident.

If you’re still wondering, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault,” contact Anderson Law Injury Attorneys today. Our experienced, knowledgeable team of personal injury attorneys can provide you with the legal help you need to get back on your feet. Schedule your free consultation today and learn how we can help you. There’s no obligation and no fee unless you win.

The information contained on this website is intended for informational purposes only, and is not legal advice. Nothing in this website establishes an attorney-client relationship between us. Different facts can dramatically affect a legal opinion. You should consult an attorney for legal advice that pertains to your personal situation.