More than 39 million people visit the ER each year with an injury, with four people dying every minute from a preventable injury. While you may be tempted to handle your injury claim on your own, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in getting the compensation you deserve. Here’s why having legal representation is so important after an accident.
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They Have Specialized Knowledge and Experience
Personal injury law is complex, with many intricacies and nuances. An experienced personal injury attorney has the specific knowledge and background to know how to build a strong case, determine fault, calculate damages, negotiate settlements, and take a case to trial if necessary (which only happens in around 4% of all cases). Experienced attorneys know what evidence to collect, which medical records and bills to obtain, and the timeline for taking legal action. Their experience litigating similar cases gives them insight into what arguments work and the realistic value of your claim. Doing it alone without this expertise puts your case at risk.
They Deal with Insurance Companies
There are 3,623 insurance businesses in the US, and none of them want to pay out any money. Injury claims involve negotiations with insurance companies whose goal is to pay as little as possible. Personal injury lawyers know how to communicate with insurers, argue for fair settlements, and push back when lowball offers are made. An experienced attorney has likely dealt with the same insurance companies and adjusters before and knows their tactics. They won’t be bullied into accepting an offer that’s less than you deserve.
They Take the Work Off Your Plate
The paperwork, calls, research, evidence gathering, and correspondence needed to properly handle an injury claim is time consuming and stressful, especially when you’re still recovering. It takes, on average, two years to reach a settlement on a personal injury case. A lawyer and their legal team takes all of that burdensome work off your hands so you can focus on your health. They also serve as a buffer so you don’t have to constantly deal with the insurance company.
No Legal Fees Unless You Win
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. The lawyer only gets paid if they recover compensation for you. And their fee comes out of your settlement amount, typically 30-40%. This no win, no fee model means you have zero financial risk in hiring legal help.
They Can Take Your Case to Trial
Most injury claims settle out of court prior to trial. But if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, a personal injury lawyer isn’t afraid to take your case before a judge and jury. Their willingness to initiate litigation and trial experience gives them more leverage in negotiations with insurers that may prompt higher settlements. It also shows the company you’re serious. As an individual, you simply don’t have the same litigation clout.
Don’t Go It Alone, Get a Personal Injury Lawyer
Suffering injuries that weren’t your fault shouldn’t also mean financial hardship. Make sure you have the best representation behind you for the best outcome possible. Consult with a qualified personal injury attorney to advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve. Having an experienced lawyer handling your injury claim can truly make all the difference.