When you’ve been injured in a car accident, you need an attorney. These legal professionals are trained in negotiating settlements and litigating cases to jury verdicts. It is important to work with a lawyer as soon as possible so they can get you the help you need.
A personal injury attorney can evaluate your damages and inform you of your rights. They also help you file your claim in the proper jurisdiction. You may even need a medical expert to assess your injuries and provide an estimate of your future medical costs. An experienced personal injury attorney can also represent you in court, as well as in mediation.
If you’ve been in an auto accident, your first step is to determine who’s at fault. Your injury attorney will do this in a detailed liability analysis. In this analysis, your attorney will research the laws in your state and the relevant legal precedents. This will establish a solid foundation for your case.
After analyzing the liability, your attorney will start gathering evidence. He or she will likely hire an economist or other expert to testify about the economic losses that personal injury attorney you suffered. For example, you might be able to recover for lost wages, future medical expenses, or household services. Likewise, your doctor might be able to tell you about non-economic losses such as pain and suffering.
Insurance companies know that fighting for compensation is stressful. The company may try to nickel and dime you or delay the process. However, a competent attorney can maximize your compensation.
Often, a reputable personal injury attorney will not charge you unless they win your case. Even if they don’t, they will still be a part of your recovery.
A good personal injury lawyer will also keep track of the insurance companies involved in your claim, as well as any bills that you incur. You should make sure to find a lawyer who practices in your state. Check out their website for information on their experience and track record. Also, ask friends and family for referrals.
Another thing to look for is a personal injury attorney that offers a free consultation. Many attorneys offer this service, and you might want to ask a few questions to see if they can help you. Be sure to look for a firm that has medical staff members on its payroll, as well. Medical personnel can serve as a buffer between you and your doctor and can help to evaluate your injuries and ensure that you’re getting the care you need.
Lastly, you should look for a personal injury lawyer who is willing to go to trial. Most personal injury claims are settled prior to a lawsuit is filed, but a few actually go to court. Personal injury trials usually last a few hours, but may take several days to play out. Getting the best result possible is important.
In summary, a personal injury attorney can help you with the legal aspects of your accident and negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. Taking the time to find the right attorney can be the difference between a good outcome and an unsatisfying one.