Most people are reluctant to seek legal assistance following an accident. The thought of hiring an attorney may seem distasteful. You may worry about other people’s perceptions of you. However, seeking legal counsel after an accident can help protect you and ensure you get the assistance you need on your road to recovery.
Presenting a claim and negotiating a settlement
A personal injury lawyer understands how to present your case effectively. An attorney can let you know what type of documentation you should have on hand and how to present the evidence that will best strengthen your claim.
Insurance providers will often try to settle claims as quickly as possible. Remember that insurance companies are in business to turn a profit. If they are operating in your best interest, it’s only through coincidence.
Most initial settlement offers are for far less than what your case is worth. An attorney who has handled cases similar to yours will understand what is fair. A lawyer can advise you whether to consider accepting a settlement or whether you should think about pushing for more.
It’s not just about money
There’s a perception that people pursue personal injury lawsuits because they think they will recover millions of dollars in damages. Multi-million dollar settlements are rare, and they only come at a great personal cost to the accident victim and their family members.
The fact is, medical care is expensive. You may not have considered the long-lasting impact of your injuries and the type of care you may need in the future. An attorney can help develop a complete picture of your losses to recover the compensation you deserve.
Money is rarely the motivating factor behind a personal injury claim. It’s also about demanding accountability and sending a message that negligent acts will not be tolerated. An attorney can help you tell your story, which may have an impact on people’s future behaviors.