Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer If you're involved in a car crash you should speak with a lawyer for car accidents. Accidents can cause substantial property damage, including damage to your vehicle and your possessions. In many instances you are able to recover the full value of your vehicle and personal items. There are also other non-economic damages you can claim for, like suffering and pain. These damages can be used to compensate losses that are hard to quantify, such emotional distress. Punitive damages can also be awarded in