Accidents happen. This paradigm does not negate the potential pain and financial burden that someone experiences as a result of an injury. Many victims are unaware of their rights to financial compensation following an accident. They take on the financial burden themselves, or end up settling for a lesser amount. While most people assume that hiring an attorney of any kind results in increased financial burdens, the truth is quite the opposite. The right personal injury lawyer will fight for your rights and financial compensation, helping you get through this difficult time.
What is a Personal Injury Case?
A personal injury case or claim is a legal action taken by the injured party against the responsible party. Personal injury cases include anything in which an individual was physically harmed as a result of negligence of another party. This may include cases such as slip and falls, car accidents, workplace injuries, nursing home abuse, and dog bites—to name a few. Seeking compensation for your injuries, pain, and suffering, is usually carried out in civil court; although it’s not uncommon to settle—out of court—with the parties involved.
Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
According to Patterson P.C, unless you’re well versed in the laws of your state, it is generally best to hire a legal representative to plead your case on your behalf. Personal injury lawyers have the industry experience to help you determine whether you have a viable case and how much you could potentially receive for your injuries and financial losses. Whether you’re dealing with a negligent employer, business owner, or driver, the right personal injury attorney will be there to provide legal support and advice.
Receive Assistance with Potential Settlements
In most instances, the negligent party will try to reach out to you with the intention of settling out of court. If you’re not fully aware of what your case is worth and what financial losses you have encountered or may encounter in the future, you could end up settling for much less than you deserve. Often, individuals who try to negotiate themselves get so attracted to the number that’s offered, they don’t factor in all the aspects of their injuries. A trained attorney, however, will consider all of the factors—medical bills (current and future), time off from work, as well as pain and suffering costs. They will help in negotiations so that you receive a fair offer.
Legal Assistance Should the Case go to Trial
While the chances of the case going to trial are slim, there are instances in which parties cannot agree on a settlement amount, or the “guilty” party doesn’t believe they’re at fault. In the event that either of these scenarios comes to fruition, the case automatically goes to trial. If you’re not aware of what the laws are in your state, as it pertains to your type of injury claim, representing yourself could cost you the case. A personal injury attorney on the other hand has your best interest in mind. They will work tirelessly to find all supporting information necessary to prove your case in court. They are fully aware of the laws in your state and will use them to help plead your case before a judge.
Before you second-guess the need for a personal injury lawyer, you should really consider the financial benefits of having one on your side. You will receive the best settlement offer and have the best representation, in the event that your case goes to court. According to DMV, it’s also beneficial to note that most attorneys work on a contingent fee—if you don’t get paid, neither do they. Consultations are generally free of charge, so at the very least, confer with a lawyer to determine if you have a case and what you’re entitled to.