Should I contact a lawyer after I have an accident?

If you get into an auto accident and suspect you've been injured, it's a good idea to take some time to call an experienced lawyer and learn more about your rights and how to best present your claim.  In some cases, a lawyer can help, and in others, you may not need to hire a lawyer.  In this brief video clip, Santa Clarita lawyer Robert Mansour is asked whether or not it's a good idea to hire a lawyer:

Tami:               So what point do we call our attorney? If I leave here today, I get into a little fender bender, do I call you right away?

Robert:            I think it's a good idea to meet with a lawyer. 50 percent of the time when I meet with my clients, I tell them you're better off without a lawyer. I really do. And there are some attorneys who give the industry a bad name. I understand that. However, I will tell the client, "Look, you're better off without me." In fact, I have a video on my website, 'How to Handle Your Own Personal Injury Case,' what to do ...

Tami:               Okay.

Robert:            ... step by step, because sometimes you don't need to involve the lawyer. 

Tami:               Right.

Robert:            But wouldn't it be nice to know what your rights are, so that when you are told information by the insurance adjustor it comes through that filter, and you know whether you're being taken for a ride or whether they're being truthful with you.