Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer A lawyer who handles car accidents should be consulted if involved in an accident. Accidents can result in significant property damage, such as to your car and personal belongings. In many instances you are able to claim the full value of your car including personal items. You can also claim non-economic damages, such as pain or suffering. These damages can be used to compensate the cost of losses that are difficult to quantify, like emotional distress. Sometimes, punitive damages can also be awarded,