Avoid Common Mistakes When Hiring A Car Accident Attorney
Hiring a car accident attorney can be a crucial decision that impacts the outcome of your case. To avoid common mistakes that could hinder your legal process, it’s essential to know what to look for when selecting representation. Careful consideration of key factors will help ensure you receive the legal support you need.
Choosing Based Solely on Advertising
One of the most common mistakes when hiring a car accident lawyer is relying on flashy advertising. While commercials or billboards can bring attention to the firm, they do not guarantee the quality of service or the attorney’s expertise. Advertising often highlights elements like promises of large settlements without discussing experience or skill. To make a well-informed choice, always go beyond advertisements by researching the attorney’s track record, client reviews, and case outcomes. This extra effort will help you find a lawyer who has a proven history of success in car accident cases.
Ignoring Specialization
Another significant mistake is choosing an attorney without considering their specialization. Some people make the error of assuming any lawyer can handle a car accident case effectively. However, not all lawyers have expertise in personal injury law. For instance, hiring a real estate attorney for a car accident claim could lead to subpar results. It’s crucial to select a lawyer who specializes in handling car accident cases and has a deep understanding of the legal and insurance complexities involved. A specialized attorney, such as those at firms focusing on personal injury law, will be better equipped to negotiate with insurance companies and advocate for your rights.
Overlooking Fee Structures
A lack of clarity about fee structures can lead to unpleasant surprises. Many people make the mistake of not fully understanding how their lawyer charges for services, whether on a contingency basis or through hourly rates. This can lead to unexpected costs down the road. When hiring an attorney, always ask for detailed information about fees. For instance, if the lawyer works on a contingency basis, they will only get paid if they win the case, typically taking a percentage of the settlement. Understanding these terms upfront helps you avoid misunderstandings and financial strain.
Failing to Communicate Expectations
A final mistake to avoid is failing to communicate expectations with your lawyer. Lack of proper communication can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities in your case. Before hiring a lawyer, make sure they understand your goals, whether it’s securing a quick settlement or taking the case to trial. Additionally, ensure that they are accessible and responsive, providing timely updates and being available to answer questions. Establishing clear communication from the start will help prevent confusion and ensure that both parties are aligned on the case’s direction.
Hiring an accident attorney is a critical decision that should not be taken lightly. Avoiding common pitfalls like relying on advertising, overlooking specialization, ignoring fee structures, and failing to communicate expectations can help you secure the best possible representation. By choosing wisely, you improve your chances of a favorable outcome in your case.
10 Most Common Places for Personal Injuries to Happen
Accidents can happen anywhere, often leading to personal injuries that require legal assistance. Understanding the most common places where these injuries occur can help individuals take preventive measures and know when to seek appropriate help. A personal injury lawyer can provide guidance where negligence or unsafe conditions lead to harm. Let’s look at the top 10 places where personal injuries are likely to occur:
Homes
Surprisingly to some, the home presents numerous dangers. A personal injury attorney can assist in cases where faulty products or poor construction contribute to an accident. Ensuring safety measures such as using non-slip mats can mitigate risks.
Workplaces
Work environments vary, and so do the hazards. Offices can pose risks through repetitive strain injuries, while construction sites might expose workers to falls or machinery-related injuries. Employers are responsible for maintaining safe conditions,and may face legal action if negligence leads to harm.
Roads and Highways
Roads are notorious for accidents, involving vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Wearing seatbelts, adhering to traffic laws, and staying alert can reduce risks. Victims of road accidents may require legal assistance to cover medical expenses and damages.
Sports Facilities
While sports are enjoyable and healthy, they also present injury risks. Whatever the physical sport, individuals can suffer from related injuries. Proper equipment, warm-up routines, and adherence to safety rules are imperative. In cases of negligence, victims might pursue legal compensation claims.
Public Places
Public spaces, such as parks, malls, and restaurants, often witness accidents due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or crowded conditions. Victims of accidents in public places may seek legal recourse if negligence is a factor.
Schools and Daycares
Children face unique safety challenges, from playground injuries to classroom accidents. Proper supervision and maintenance of equipment are vital to prevent incidents. Legal action might be necessary if injuries occur due to inadequate safety measures.
Nursing Homes
Elderly residents in nursing homes are particularly vulnerable to falls, medication errors, and abuse. Facility regulations must provide a safe and caring environment. If negligence is suspected, consult an attorney to address any legal concerns.
Retail Stores
Retail environments pose slip-and-fall risks, especially during wet weather or sales events. Store owners are responsible for maintaining clean and hazard-free premises. If an accident occurs, victims are entitled to seek compensation.
Amusement Parks
Park operators must ensure equipment safety and follow strict protocols. Visitors should follow instructions to minimize risks. Legal claims may arise if accidents occur due to equipment failure or inadequate safety measures.
Hospitals
Hospitals can also be sites of personal injuries, from slip-and-fall accidents to medical errors. Patients and visitors should be cautious of potential hazards. In medical malpractice or negligence cases, consulting a personal injury attorney can guide on pursuing legal action.
Personal injuries can occur in various settings, each with unique risks and safety measures. By understanding these common locations and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can reduce their chances of injury. However, when accidents do happen, seeking legal assistance can help victims secure the compensation they need to recover and move forward.
Why Do Car Insurance Companies Deny Claims That Seem Straightforward?
Car insurance is a critical safeguard for drivers, offering financial protection and peace of mind in the event of an accident. However, many policyholders find themselves bewildered and frustrated when their seemingly straightforward claims are denied. Understanding the reasons behind these denials can be essential for navigating the claims process successfully. Consulting a car accident attorney can also provide valuable guidance in such situations.
Understanding the Insurance Company’s Perspective
Insurance companies operate as businesses, aiming to minimize payouts and maximize profits. This business model can lead to stringent claim evaluations. While it might seem unfair, insurers assess claims based on detailed criteria and evidence. Discrepancies in the reported accident details or lack of supporting documentation can lead to denials. Consulting a car accident lawyer can help claimants understand the nuances of their policy and strengthen their case.
Common Reasons for Claim Denials
Several common reasons contribute to the denial of car insurance claims. One major factor is the lack of adequate evidence. Insurers require thorough documentation, including police reports, photographs, and witness statements, to verify the circumstances of the accident. Without this evidence, insurers might question the legitimacy of the claim. Policyholders also need to be mindful of their policy coverage limits. Claims exceeding these limits are often denied. Furthermore, if a policyholder fails to report the accident promptly, insurers may use this delay as grounds for denial.
Steps to Strengthen Your Claim
Policyholders can take proactive measures to improve the likelihood of their claim being approved. Firstly, gathering comprehensive evidence immediately after the accident is crucial. Taking clear photographs of the scene, exchanging information with other involved parties, and obtaining witness statements can strengthen the claim. Additionally, promptly reporting the accident to the insurer ensures that the claim is processed efficiently. If a claim is denied, policyholders have the right to appeal the decision, providing additional evidence or clarifying discrepancies. Seeking assistance from a car accident attorney can significantly enhance the chances of a successful appeal.
The Role of Legal Assistance
In cases where a claim is unjustly denied or the policyholder faces challenges in navigating the claims process, legal assistance can be invaluable. A car accident lawyer specializes in understanding insurance policies and negotiating with insurers on behalf of their clients. These professionals can identify potential areas of concern in a claim and provide expert advice on how to address them. They also possess the skills needed to advocate for the policyholder’s rights, ensuring a fair evaluation of the claim. Legal assistance can be particularly beneficial in complex cases.
While car insurance claim denials can be frustrating, understanding the reasons behind them and taking proactive steps can improve the chances of a successful outcome. By comprehensively documenting accidents, promptly reporting them, and understanding their policies, drivers can reduce the likelihood of denial. Seeking assistance from a car accident legal professional can provide crucial support in navigating the often complex claims process. With these strategies, policyholders can better protect their rights and ensure they receive the coverage they deserve.
Safety Should Be Job #1 and a Personal Injury Lawyer Will Help Resolve Issues
In today’s workplaces, safety is not just a priority but a fundamental necessity. Whether you’re in a construction site, an office building, or a manufacturing facility, ensuring a safe environment for workers is crucial for productivity, morale, and legal compliance. However, accidents can still happen despite preventive measures, leading to injuries that may require legal recourse to resolve effectively. Let’s look at how a personal injury lawyer can play a pivotal role in resolving issues when those rare incidents occur.
The Importance of Safety as Job #1
Safety as Job #1 isn’t merely a slogan; it reflects a commitment to protecting the well-being of employees. Additionally, a safe workplace isn’t just about complying with regulations; it’s about fostering a culture where workers feel valued and protected. Employers have a legal and moral obligation to provide a safe environment, including proper training, equipment maintenance, and hazard identification measures. Investing in safety measures not only reduces the risk of accidents but also enhances employee morale and productivity.
Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer
Despite best efforts, workplace accidents can occur due to negligence, equipment failures, or unsafe working conditions. In such cases, a personal injury attorney specializing in workplace injuries becomes a crucial ally for employees seeking justice and compensation. These legal professionals specialize in navigating the complexities of personal injury law, advocating for their clients’ rights to fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by workplace accidents.
A personal injury lawyer starts by assessing the circumstances surrounding the accident, gathering evidence, and evaluating the extent of the injuries and their impact on the client’s life. They provide guidance on legal options and strategies, negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing litigation if necessary to ensure their clients receive adequate compensation. By understanding the intricacies of workers’ compensation laws and liability statutes, personal injury lawyers advocate vigorously on behalf of injured workers, holding employers accountable for negligence or unsafe practices that led to the accident.
Resolving Workplace Injury Issues
When an injury occurs on the job, swift action is crucial. Employers should immediately address the incident, provide necessary medical attention, and document the details accurately. Employees should report the accident promptly and seek medical treatment to ensure their health and well-being. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer early in the process can help protect rights and streamline the claims process.
Personal injury lawyers bring expertise and experience to the table, guiding clients through the complexities of filing a claim, negotiating settlements, or representing them in court if a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation. They understand the emotional and financial toll of workplace injuries and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients.
Prioritizing safety as Job #1 in every workplace is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative. However, when accidents do occur, seeking legal representation from a reputable personal injury lawyer is crucial. These professionals specialize in navigating the complexities of workplace injury claims, advocating fiercely for the rights of injured workers to secure fair compensation and justice.
Ask Your Car Accident Attorney About Injuries That Aren't Immediately Noticeable
When involved in a car accident, injuries that aren’t immediately noticeable can pose significant challenges, both physically and legally. Consulting with a car accident attorney is crucial to understanding and addressing these hidden injuries effectively. They understand that some injuries, including soft tissue wounds, may not become noticeable for hours or even days. With years of experience in handling accident issues, your attorney is well-positioned to see that you receive everything you deserve.
The Importance of Medical Evaluation
Following a car accident, the adrenaline and shock often mask pain and symptoms of injuries. This delay in symptoms can lead to injuries going unnoticed or untreated, potentially worsening over time. Common hidden injuries include whiplash, concussions, internal bleeding, and soft tissue injuries, which may not manifest until days or even weeks after the accident. Seeking medical attention promptly is essential, as healthcare professionals can diagnose and document these injuries, providing crucial evidence for insurance claims or legal proceedings. It is crucial that you take note of any aches and pains that may crop up, and document the medical processes you receive.
Legal Implications and Challenges
In legal terms, hidden injuries can complicate the process of seeking compensation for damages resulting from the accident. Insurance companies may dispute claims related to injuries that weren’t immediately apparent, arguing that they are not directly attributable to the accident or questioning the severity of the injuries. This is where having an experienced car accident lawyer becomes invaluable, as they are able to bring legal precedents to bear that you may have never even heard of, thanks to extensive experience with similar cases.
Why Consult a Car Accident Attorney?
Car accident attorneys specialize in navigating the complexities of personal injury claims, especially those involving hidden injuries. They have the expertise to:
Evaluate Medical Records – Attorneys can review medical records and consult with healthcare professionals to establish a clear link between the accident and hidden injuries.
Gather Evidence – Attorneys gather crucial evidence such as medical reports, diagnostic tests, and expert opinions to substantiate claims for compensation.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies – Attorneys negotiate on behalf of their clients with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Litigate if Necessary – Occasionally, claims cannot be settled without a legal decision. If such a fair settlement cannot be reached, attorneys are prepared to take the case to court and advocate for their client’s rights before a judge and jury.
Car accidents can result in injuries that are not immediately noticeable but can have long-lasting consequences for victims. Seeking prompt medical evaluation and consulting with a car accident attorney are crucial steps in ensuring that hidden injuries are properly diagnosed, treated, and compensated. Attorneys play a vital role in advocating for their clients’ rights, navigating legal complexities, and securing the compensation needed for recovery and financial stability. If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t hesitate to discuss potential hidden injuries with a qualified attorney to protect your health and legal interests effectively.
What to Look for in a Great Personal Injury Lawyer
When involved in an accident that results in serious injuries, the first step for many is to seek legal counsel. But with thousands of lawyers to choose from — some less experienced or reputable than others — it’s important to take that step with care to ensure the success of your case.
IBISWorld data shows that there were more than 48,000 personal injury attorneys in the United States in 2023. In Ohio alone, nearly 17,000 lawyers take on injury-related cases, according to the Ohio Bar’s directory.
Clearly, if you want the best outcome for your case, you’ll need to choose carefully. When searching for an attorney, it’s crucial to do your due diligence as if your chances for compensation depend on it, as they very well may.
How to Find an Attorney
Researching personal injury law firms in your area may sound time-consuming, even overwhelming. However, it can often be as simple as making a few phone calls.
Referrals can come from many sources, such as family members or friends who have successfully won a case using a particular personal injury lawyer. Alternatively, you might have a friend or know a friend of a friend who practices law. Even if they don’t focus on personal injury, they may be able to make a recommendation.
Another good source — the best one for vetted lawyers — is a local American Bar Association referral service. Keep in mind, however, that such services may charge a fee.
While you might have seen personal injury lawyer ads on TV, online, or in print publications, it’s wise not to make advertising your only source. Some lawyers may be volume-driven and geared toward fast turnover rather than outcome-focused. A far better approach is to aim to gather three to five referrals from different sources.
What to Look for in a Personal Injury Lawyer
Once you’ve got a list, you can reach out to each firm and schedule a consultation, which most personal injury attorneys offer at no charge. Here are a few things to look for during your consultation:
Reputation
To gauge a firm’s reputation, find out whether they’ve received awards, high rankings, or other industry recognition in the past. It’s also a good idea to search for reviews from previous clients.
Experience
Make sure that personal injuries are the firm’s primary practice area and that its attorneys have a track record for achieving favorable outcomes for their clients. Don’t be afraid to request examples of successful cases.
Depending on your needs, it may also be wise to verify that the firm has mediation or trial experience.
Communication
When interacting with a particular attorney, pay attention to their communication style. Did they welcome your questions? Were their explanations clear and knowledgeable? Did you sense sincerity in how they expressed concern for you and your case?
The answers to these questions may influence your rapport with a given lawyer, as well as their ability to be of service to you.
Your Decision Matters — Make It Count
If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t just settle on the first personal injury attorney you come across. Gather multiple recommendations, research the firms in detail, and meet with an attorney at each to get a sense of their personality and expertise.
By being proactive and taking the right steps, you can find an attorney who will prove to be a stalwart champion for your case.
What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
According to AAA, there’s a hit-and-run crash every 43 seconds in the United States. While being a proactive driver remains the best defense against these traumatic road events, knowing how to react when one occurs can minimize both physical and financial harm.
Fleeing the Scene of a Crash Is Against the Law
Fleeing an accident scene is illegal in all states. Ohio law not only prohibits running but also requires the at-fault vehicle owner to report the incident to police at the scene. If the accident takes a life, the runner can face stiff charges.
Despite the potential penalties, however, hit-and-run crashes happen frequently on U.S. roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that hit-and-run collisions accounted for 17% of all crashes in the U.S. in 2020. Data from the same year also revealed that fatalities from hit-and-run crashes increased by 26%.
7 Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run, what you do in the moments following the crash will be crucial to preserving your safety and property, as well as the evidence you and your car accident attorney will need to build a claim for compensation. The following seven steps are the most critical:
1. Evaluate Your Situation
Did you or your passengers sustain injuries? Were there any fatalities? If the answer to either question is “yes,” call 911. The dispatcher will provide vital instructions and send paramedics to the scene. It’s imperative to seek prompt medical attention even if you don’t think your injuries are serious.
2. Move Your Vehicle Out of the Road
If your vehicle is driveable, move it off of the road to safety. If not, alert other drivers to the crash using hazard lights, flares, or warning triangles.
3. Call the Police
Summon law enforcement personnel will allow them to begin investigating the accident while key evidence and witnesses are still on the scene. The official police report the responding officer creates will also be vital to your insurance claim.
4. Take Notes
Record as many details as you can about the other vehicle, including the tag number, make and model, color and other distinguishing features, and visible damage. Also, note the date, time, and circumstances surrounding the crash.
5. Gather Photographic Evidence
Take photos or videos of the scene and any damage to your vehicle. If there are surveillance cameras in the area, ask the owner for footage of the crash. Police identify many runners this way.
6. Collect Witness Information
Jot down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses at the scene, whether other drivers who pulled over to assist, passing pedestrians, or employees of nearby businesses. Ask each person if they’d be willing to provide a statement to law enforcement.
7. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
Hit-and-run cases can be complex. A qualified car accident attorney will understand the unique nuances of hit-and-run crashes, such as the applicable laws and the statute of limitations for filing a claim. They’ll also be able to negotiate with the insurance companies to maximize your eligible compensation.
Prepare for the Unexpected
No one expects a hit-and-run to happen to them. However, taking the proper steps to prepare for this type of traffic crash could prove essential to your well-being and ability to recover damages with the help of a car accident lawyer.
A Great Personal Injury Lawyer Will Stand Up to Corporate Law Teams
After a personal injury incident, you must fulfill several obligations such as file an insurance claim and if appropriate, build a persuasive case before filing a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages. Hiring a personal injury lawyer helps you receive the legal support required to move through the insurance claim and civil lawsuit processes. In addition, a great personal injury lawyer will stand up to corporate law teams.
Facing a corporate law team presents different types of obstacles to hurdle than the obstacles presented by small law firms and individual attorneys. First, corporate law teams possess many more legal resources to pull from when the time comes to litigate your case. Second, corporate law firms assign attorneys to cases that match their legal specialization. You can count on facing an experienced team of litigators that specialize in litigating personal injury cases, Third, corporate law teams consist of experienced attorneys who have established professional relationships with the participants in a case such as the judge.
Let’s see how a personal injury attorney stands up to corporate law teams.
Interacts with the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often take advantage of policyholders who file claims without the legal support provided by a personal injury attorney. Following the advice of the corporate law team, an insurance company might delay processing your claim and/or undervalue the amount of compensation. Your personal injury lawyer interacts with every employee representing the insurance company who is involved with your claim, which includes the lawyers who are part of the corporate law team.
Meet Deadlines
A corporate law team advises its clients not to make you aware of filing deadlines. Although you do not have to meet a deadline to file an auto insurance claim, you should act with a sense of urgency to receive compensation in a timely manner. However, you do have to meet a deadline if you file an appeal on a denied insurance claim or for an insurance claim that is undervalued. For a civil lawsuit, you must file the proper documents before the expiration of the statute of limitations. Each state has established a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Negotiate a Settlement
Most civil lawsuits that concern personal injury law never reach the trial phase of the litigation process. Instead, both parties try to negotiate a settlement to avoid a costly and time-consuming civil trial. Corporate law teams assign the most skilled negotiators to go back and forth with personal injury attorneys. This means you should counter that expertise by hiring a personal injury lawyer who has a proven record of success negotiating settlements for personal injury cases. Your personal injury lawyer submits an offer, which the other party accepts or rejects. Several rounds of counter offers can follow until both parties reach a settlement.
Hire the Most Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer
What defines a skilled personal injury attorney? It starts with years of experience. You want to work with an accomplished litigator who has compiled many years of experience getting the clients the compensation that they deserve. Your personal injury lawyer should understand complex medical terms to help you receive just compensation for medical expenses. As previously mentioned, your personal injury attorney should possess effective negotiating skills to counter the skill level of a corporate team of litigators. Finally, a personal injury lawyer should be a responsive communicator to help you navigate the many obstacles that can block the progress of your case.
To confirm the skill level of every personal injury attorney on your shortlist of candidates, read the reviews left by clients on sites such as Yelp and Google. You also should access every attorney’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page.
Is It True That I Should Contact a Car Accident Attorney From the Accident Scene?
Getting involved in a car accident unleashes a flurry of thoughts that can lead to the making of one or more poor decisions. The key after a car accident is to take a couple of deep breaths, and then calmly secure the accident scene by moving your vehicle to a safe place to avoid additional damage. You want to make sure you and the passengers of your vehicle have not sustained any serious injuries, as well as check on the drivers and passengers of the other motor vehicles involved in the collision. One question might pop into your mind that requires a quick, accurate answer.
Is it true that I should contact a car accident attorney from the accident scene?
The short answer is contacting a car accident lawyer from the accident scene is a good idea, but it is not a requirement to help you build a persuasive insurance claim and civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages. A car accident attorney is going to need certain information to handle your case, such as a copy of the police report and all of your auto insurance information. You hand over this type of confirmation to a car accident lawyer during a free case evaluation, which means you can wait until you get home after an auto crash to contact a car accident attorney.
However, if you have a car accident lawyer on retainer, then contacting the attorney is a good idea from the accident scene just to let the lawyer know that you plan to file an insurance claim and that you might have gathered enough physical evidence to file a successful civil lawsuit. You also can contact a car accident lawyer from the accident scene if you have one listed on your phone’s contact list.
Let’s quickly review what you should do after a motor vehicle crash.
Call 911
Even if you sustained minor injuries and your car appears to be in good shape, calling 911 is important in two ways. First, a law enforcement agency responds to the 911 call to take control of the accident scene by ensuring the safety of everyone and organizing the flow of traffic. Second, the responding law enforcement personnel conduct a detailed investigation that leads to the submission of a report that your car accident attorney refers to while working on your case.
Receive Medical Care
When you receive medical care depends on the severity of your injuries. If you sustained one or more serious injuries like a bone fracture, you should go immediately to the nearest emergency room for medical care. On the other hand, less serious injuries such as minor bleeding can be treated at the scene of the vehicle collision. The importance of seeking medical care cannot be overstated. It is the key for you to get an insurance claim improved and you must justify any compensation awarded during a civil trial.
Collect Physical Evidence
Although the official police report contains referrals to physical evidence such as traffic camera footage, you give your car accident lawyer a head start by collecting and submitting physical evidence. Using your phone, take photographs of the accident scene that includes tire marks and road conditions. You also should shoot photos of your vehicle to help your car accident attorney assess the extent of any damage.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
Once again, you can complete this step at the accident scene or wait until you get home. Before you meet with a car accident lawyer, organize the appropriate paperwork into smaller files to help your attorney manage the case. You can contact your insurance company before or after speaking with a car accident lawyer. However, do not file an auto insurance claim until after you receive legal support from an experienced car accident attorney.
6 Things to Look for in a Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer who specializes in car accident cases provides several types of legal support. First, an attorney helps you file an insurance claim by interacting with the adjuster processing your case. Second, your personal injury lawyer conducts an extensive investigation that involves collecting physical evidence and interviewing witnesses. Personal injury lawyers also negotiate settlements and calculate fair values for compensation. Finally, if your car accident attorney can prove another party committed one or more acts of negligence, you receive legal support during the entire litigation process.
The question is not whether you should hire a personal injury lawyer. Instead, the question is what criteria should you look for when hiring a car accident attorney?
Let’s review the six things to look for in a personal injury lawyer.
Experience
Experience is much more than accumulating years of service as a personal injury lawyer. Although years of service give you an idea about an attorney’s skill level, you should be more focused on the results a lawyer got during the years of service. What percentage of cases has a personal injury lawyer helped a client receive just compensation, whether it was in the form of an approved insurance claim or a favorable decision issued during a civil trial?
Handles Your Case From Start to Finish
Do not take for granted that the personal injury lawyer who meets with you during a free consultation will provide legal support throughout the entire litigation and insurance claim process. Some attorneys meet with clients for a free consultation, only to delegate the responsibilities for the remainder of a case to paralegals and less experienced personal injury lawyers. Make sure the attorney that you hire provides support during every phase of the legal process.
Works on a Contingency Fee Basis
A contingency fee payment is a type of compensation in which an attorney receives a percentage of the money approved for an insurance claim, as well as a percentage of the money awarded during a civil trial. Personal injury lawyers who operate on a contingency fee basis as opposed to receiving an hourly fee are much more motivated to get their clients just compensation. Contingency fees for personal injury cases range from 25 percent up to 40 percent.
Open to Negotiations
Negotiating a settlement during a civil trial saves you both time and money. Your personal injury lawyer submits an initial offer that the other party accepts or rejects. If the other party rejects the initial offer, several rounds of counter offers can follow until both sides agree to a settlement or decide to move to the next step of the litigation process. Unfortunately, some attorneys refuse to negotiate settlements. You want your personal injury lawyer to be open to negotiations.
Responsive Communicator
You already have enough stress in your life to deal with an attorney who is a poor communicator. A responsive personal injury lawyer promptly returns text, phone, and email messages. You should be able to determine the responsiveness of an attorney before you decide to hire one. Your personal injury lawyer also should be effective at explaining complex legal topics, as well as spot on when it comes to notifying you about important upcoming events.
Online Reviews
Attorneys typically post client testimonials on their websites. Although client testimonials give you insight into a lawyer’s reputation, you also should read the reviews left by clients on sites such as Yelp and Google to determine the skill level of every personal injury lawyer on your shortlist. Look for common positive attributes mentioned by numerous clients. We also recommend that you check out every attorney’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page.
How to Expedite Claims With a Car Accident Attorney
The moment of truth has arrived.
You have just gotten involved in a car accident, and how you react determines whether you receive compensation for the medical bills and property damage associated with your case. Calling 911, obtaining witness contact information, and taking photos of the accident scene are a few of the important steps to take after a motor vehicle collision. The most important step is the step that sets the wheels in motion for you to receive just compensation.
The step involves contacting a state-licensed car accident attorney.
A car accident attorney provides you with several types of legal support, from interviewing witnesses to reviewing a copy of the official police report. One of the most important types of legal support is to help you file an insurance claim that gets you compensated for financial losses.
Let’s see how an experienced car accident lawyer can help you expedite a car insurance claim.
Interacts with the Insurance Adjuster
Auto insurance companies prefer to deal with policyholders who file claims without the legal support of a car accident attorney. Without the legal support of an experienced vehicle collision lawyer, your insurance company might try to take advantage of you by proposing a lowball claim offer. Another tactic used by car insurance companies is for adjusters to delay processing claims. By interacting with the insurance adjuster processing your claim, the car accident attorney working your case applies the right amount of pressure to ensure your claim moves through the processing system in a timely manner.
Submits Persuasive Evidence
The most common reason why insurance adjusters deny claims concerns the submission of underwhelming physical evidence. By hiring an accomplished lawyer, you submit the types of persuasive physical evidence that get your claim approved without you having to wait months to receive compensation. Your car accident lawyer refers to the official police report to acquire physical evidence, as well as the photos that you took at the scene of the accident such as photos of tire marks and the damage done to your motor vehicle. One of the most convincing pieces of physical evidence is the footage captured by a traffic and/or security camera.
Submitting convincing physical evidence should expedite your car insurance claim.
Assists With Completing the Claim Form
Did you know that just one mistake found on a car insurance claim form can send your claim to the end of the line for review? Even if you fail to include your middle initial in the right space, the insurance adjuster processing your claim can send it back denied. Enlisting the help of a car accident attorney to file your claim ensures that you do not make any mistakes, as well as leaving any of the mandatory spaces blank. Your lawyer also explains what each section means to help you gain a much better understanding of what your insurance company expects from a valid claim.
Calculates a Reasonable Value for Compensation
Another frequent reason why insurance adjusters deny claims concerns the filing of an unreasonable value for compensation. A car accident lawyer calculates a fair value for compensation by first adding up all the tangible costs, such as the cost of medical care and the value of repairing property damage. You have the right to receive compensation for the costs associated with diagnostic tests, treatment programs, and physical therapy sessions. Your car accident attorney also calculates a value for noneconomic damages, like the symptoms that develop because of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. (PTSD).
Negotiate a Settlement
If your insurance company denies a claim, you have the right to file an appeal. However, filing an appeal prolongs the claim review process. Your car accident attorney can propose at any time that both parties meet to negotiate a settlement. Negotiations start when your lawyer presents an initial offer that includes a reasonable value for compensation. The insurance adjuster processing your claim can either accept or deny the initial offer. Several rounds of counter offers can follow until both parties reach a settlement or decide to move on to the appeals process.
Who Is Liable If I Was Injured At A Neighbor's House?
You sustained one or more injuries at a neighbor’s house. Whether you slipped and fell or tumbled down a few stairs, the injuries that you sustained have caused you to rack up a substantial medical bill. In addition, you expect to pay for future medical services such as the use of an assistive device and/or undergoing comprehensive physical therapy sessions. Even if you do not incur additional medical costs, you are still on the financial hook. This prompts one important question: Who is liable if you were injured at a neighbor’s house?
The short answer is your neighbor is the most likely party held responsible for you sustaining one or more injuries. Your case probably falls under a type of law practice called premises liability. However, other circumstances can place a legal burden on another party. To determine the answer to the question, “Who is liable if I was injured at a neighbor’s house,” you should contact an experienced and state-licensed personal injury lawyer.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability represents a type of personal injury law that follows many of the same principles followed for other personal injury cases such as car accidents and medical malpractice. This type of personal injury law involved demonstrating that a property owner failed to prevent an accident that caused a visitor to sustain one or more injuries. To win a premises liability lawsuit, your personal injury lawyer must prove the existence of four legal elements.
First, your personal injury lawyer must show the plaintiff had a duty of care to protect you against harm. Second, you must prove your neighbor violated the duty of care doctrine by committing one or more acts of negligence. Third, the incident must have directly caused you to sustain one or more injuries. Finally, your injuries must have generated financial losses in the form of medical bills.
How Does My Personal Injury Lawyer Build a Persuasive Case?
Several factors play a role in helping your personal injury lawyer build a strong premises liability case. Physical evidence is the heart of a strong premises liability case. Your attorney submits photographs of the accident scene, which can be taken by you, as well as any witnesses who saw the accident. If your neighbor installed a security camera system, you might be able to extract video sequences that prove your neighbor committed one or more acts of negligence. Witness accounts of the accident bolster the strength of the physical evidence gathered by your personal injury lawyer.
To receive just compensation for your injuries, you must submit copies of all medical bills. This includes the results of diagnostic tests, as well as copies of treatment and rehabilitation bills. Copies of your financial records verify the amount of money you have paid to different healthcare facilities. Notarized statements by doctors and surgeons demonstrate what you can expect to spend for future medical care. Your employer also can help by showing that you lost wages due to the seriousness of your injuries.
Take Action Today
Hiring a personal injury lawyer who specializes in handling premises liability cases is crucial if you expect to receive just compensation for your injuries. Your attorney conducts a detailed investigation and then calculates a reasonable value for compensation that you use when filing an insurance claim and a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages. Instead of dealing with an insurance adjuster, your personal injury lawyer handles the claim during every step of the review process. Your attorney can negotiate a settlement with the insurance adjuster, as well as the attorney representing the other party. One of the most important responsibilities of your personal injury lawyer is to file a civil lawsuit before the expiration of the statute of limitations.
6 Steps You Should Take Immediately After an Accident
The average American driver can expect to get involved in some form of car accident one time every six years. Although many car accidents turn out to be minor fender benders, some vehicle collisions result in substantial property damage and significant injuries to one or more drivers and passengers. The best mindset for how to react after a car accident is to already know what to do. For a serious auto crash, leaning on the legal expertise of a car accident attorney makes the difference between receiving just compensation and walking away empty-handed.
Here are the six steps you should take immediately after a car accident.
Think Safety
You can expect a flurry of thoughts to rush through your brain right after a motor vehicle collision. Slow the thoughts down by thinking about safety first. You should find a safe place to move your car if it is capable of moving to another location nearby. Pulling over on a shoulder is a good choice, but if you can find a parking spot on a lot nearby, you enhance your safety by staying away from traffic. Once you get to a safe place, check on all the other drivers and passengers.
Call 911
Calling 911 immediately after a vehicle collision accomplishes two important things. First, a 911 call activates the emergency response system, which includes medical personnel that can treat victims who sustained serious injuries such as fractures and lacerations. Second, the responding law enforcement agency clears the scene of vehicles to prevent another accident from occurring. Law enforcement personnel also conduct a thorough investigation of the accident scene.
Receive Medical Care
Receiving a diagnosis and getting treated for any injuries is critical for you to file a successful insurance claim, as well as a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages if you have a strong enough case. If you wait too long to receive medical care, the insurance adjuster reviewing your claim might deny it on the grounds that you did not sustain serious enough injuries to warrant receiving compensation. You might be able to receive initial treatment at the scene of the car accident.
Gather Evidence
Although the law enforcement agency responding to the vehicle collision collects evidence, you also should collect evidence to give your car accident attorney a head start on conducting a separate investigation. Simply taking photographs of the accident scene by using a Smartphone can help your car accident attorney put the pieces of the investigative puzzle together. Obtain the names and contact information of every witness for your car accident attorney to interview as soon as possible.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
If you have a car accident attorney on retainer or know of a lawyer who specializes in handling personal injury cases, the first call you make should be to your legal counsel. Schedule a free case evaluation to determine the best course of action. Your car accident attorney reviews the official police report and all the physical evidence, as well as interviews witnesses. If you do not have access to a car accident attorney, conduct a little online research to find one practicing in your area and then schedule a free case evaluation.
Work on Receiving Just Compensation
Meeting with a lawyer is the key to starting the process of receiving just compensation for your financial losses. Do not contact your insurance company until after you meet with a car accident attorney. Your lawyer helps you submit the proper documents, as well as helps you develop a persuasive claim. If the other party committed one or more acts of negligence that caused the auto crash, you might have a strong enough case to file a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages.
What Information Do I Need to Give My Personal Injury Lawyer?
After getting involved in a motor vehicle collision, you should take several steps to help build a case to receive compensation. First, you call 911 to alert the appropriate law enforcement agency about the crash. Second, you should seek medical care to diagnose and treat every injury that results from the accident. Then, obtain the contact information from witnesses and take photographs of the accident scene by using your cell phone. The most important step involves contacting an experienced personal injury lawyer to schedule a free consultation.
Personal injury cases extend well beyond motor vehicle collisions. If you are a victim of a slip and fall, medical negligence, or a defective product, a personal injury attorney can help you recover your financial losses. The key is to come prepared for the free consultation by knowing what information to give to your personal injury lawyer.
Accident Report
An accident report is a crucial document that provides your attorney with information such as the date and time of the personal injury incident, as well as where the incident took place. If you cannot obtain a copy of the accident report, your personal injury lawyer contacts the appropriate source to obtain it. An accident report should help your personal injury lawyer determine the cause of the incident and whether another party committed one or more acts of negligence.
Photographs of the Incident Scene
Photographs can reveal plenty of useful information, such as where a personal injury incident took place. For car accident cases, law enforcement officials typically include photographic evidence in the official police report. For other types of personal injury cases, you should be proactive and take photos of the incident scene. You also should request video camera tape that might help your attorney determine the cause.
Witness Contact Information
Witness statements provide support for the physical evidence collected at the scene of the personal injury incident. You do not have to interview witnesses after a personal injury incident. Just write down the names and contact information for your attorney to reference. Your personal injury lawyer should interview witnesses as close to the date of the incident as possible to receive the most accurate accounts of what transpired before, during, and after the personal injury incident.
Medical Records
Medical bills by far represent the costliest expense associated with a personal injury incident. The costs associated with diagnostic tests, treatment programs, and physical therapy sessions can soar into the tens of thousands of dollars. Your personal injury lawyer needs copies of medical records to convince an insurance adjuster to approve a compensation claim. Copies of medical records also play a role in a judge determining the value of the compensation awarded during a civil trial.
Insurance Information
When you meet with a personal injury lawyer for a free consultation, the lawyer needs to review your insurance information to determine the extent of your coverage. You also should provide a personal injury lawyer with the insurance information of the other party or parties. Although you should not contact your insurance company until you speak with an attorney, make sure to tell your lawyer if you did reach out to your insurance company.Before you meet for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer, ask the attorney what information you need to bring to the first meeting.
5 Excellent Reasons to Consult A Leading Car Accident Attorney
Be prepared.
It is a short motto that has relevance for a wide variety of reasons during our lifetimes. Being prepared has special relevance when it comes to car accidents, as the average person gets into four accidents during a lifetime. Preparation involves knowing the steps to take after a vehicle collision, which include calling 911, receiving medical care, obtaining the contact info of witnesses, and getting in touch with an experienced car accident attorney.
An experienced car accident lawyer should offer a free consultation to determine how to proceed with your case. Although a free case evaluation is a strong motivator to take action, what other reasons should motivate you to contact a personal injury lawyer who specializes in handling auto crash cases?
Let’s review five excellent reasons to consult a leading car accident attorney.
Conduct a Detailed Investigation
The best personal injury attorneys who specialize in car accident cases conduct detailed investigations that start with gathering and examining physical evidence. Photographs of the accident scene can help your attorney determine what caused the collision, as well as whether another party committed one or more acts of negligence. Photographs of the damage done to your vehicle can provide compelling physical evidence. Your lawyer also interviews witnesses who can describe what transpired before, during, and after the collision.
File an Insurance Claim
Filing an insurance claim is a straightforward process, but just one mistake can turn a claim that should be approved into a claim that comes back denied. An experienced car accident attorney ensures you fill out every box on the claim form with accurate information. Your lawyer also monitors the status of your claim to make sure it receives a review in a timely manner. If the insurance adjuster processing your claim denies it, an experienced vehicle collision lawyer helps you file an appeal
File a Lawsuit before the Deadline
Every state has established a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit, with most states setting the statute of limitations between two and four years. Working with a car accident attorney ensures you file a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages before the expiration of the statute of limitations. If you fail to file a civil lawsuit before the expiration of the statute of limitations, the court clerk processing your case has the power to remove it from the judicial docket.
Represent You During Litigation
If you represent yourself during a civil trial, the odds of you winning the case substantially fall. A car accident lawyer understands the importance of presenting persuasive physical evidence during the discovery phase, which is the step when both sides share information to determine whether they can avoid a costly and time-consuming trial. Hiring an experienced auto crash attorney helps you present convincing legal arguments to counter the legal arguments presented by the legal team representing the defendant.
Negotiate a Settlement
Negotiating a favorable settlement can end the litigation process long before it ends when a judge or jury issues a decision. Your car accident attorney offers a reasonable value for compensation, which the other party either accepts or rejects. If the other party rejects the initial offer for compensation, several rounds of counter offers can follow until both sides agree to a settlement or decide to take the case to the trial phase of the litigation process. Negotiating a settlement also comes in handy when you file an insurance claim.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Settle Slip and Fall Cases Quickly
At first, you feel embarrassed because you slipped and fell. However, the embarrassment wears off fast, as you realize that you have sustained an injury. Slip and fall incidents do not make the front page of the local newspaper like car accident cases sometimes do. They also do not receive the same scrutiny as medical malpractice cases. However, slip and fall incidents can cause serious injuries, such as a fractured arm or a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
According to research conducted by the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), slip and fall cases account for more than one million emergency room visits every year in the United States. If you sustained one or more injuries as the result of a slip and fall incident, you should act with a sense of urgency by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in handling slip and fall cases. A personal injury lawyer can help you settle a slip and fall case quickly for several reasons.
Monitors Your Insurance Claim
Insurance adjusters love it when policyholders do not receive legal support during the claim filing process. Without a state-licensed personal injury attorney, an insurance adjuster is more likely to deny your claim even if you submit persuasive physical evidence. You also might deal with an insurance adjuster who prolongs the claim review process. By hiring an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in handling slip and fall cases, you receive an insurance claim review in a timely manner. Your lawyer monitors the progress of your claim to ensure it receives the attention that it deserves.
Negotiates a Settlement
A personal injury lawyer who possesses strong negotiation skills is more likely to settle a slip and fall case much faster than an attorney who cannot negotiate a settlement. You can settle an insurance claim through negotiations, as well as during a civil lawsuit. Negotiations start when your attorney submits a reasonable offer for compensation. The insurance adjuster or the lawyer representing the defendant either accepts the initial offer or sends it back as rejected. Several rounds of counter offers can follow until both sides reach a settlement or decide to take the next step in the process.
Calculates a Reasonable Value for Compensation
One of the most common reasons why a slip and fall case takes a long time to resolve concerns the submission of an unreasonable value for compensation. To calculate a fair value for compensation, your slip and fall attorney adds up all the tangible costs associated with your case, such as the value of diagnostic tests and treatment programs. You also have the right to receive compensation for non-monetary damages, which are often the costs associated with pain and suffering. Your personal injury lawyer has to be careful not to overvalue the costs associated with pain and suffering.
Submit Convincing Evidence
Another key to settling a slip and fall case quickly involves submitting persuasive evidence. If you slipped and fell inside a business, your attorney should be able to retrieve the footage shot by a security camera. Submission of the copies of medical bills proves what types of injuries you sustained, as well as the monetary value attached to diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating your injuries. Your personal injury lawyer also presents witness statements, which judges and insurance adjusters typically refer to as support for the physical evidence submitted during a civil trial or with an insurance claim.
Get the legal support you deserve by contacting one of our experienced personal injury attorneys to resolve your slip and fall case quickly.
How to Select the Right Car Accident Attorney For Your Case
Staying composed after getting involved in a motor vehicle collision can be difficult to do. However, you should focus on staying calm and following a series of steps that eventually determine whether you receive just compensation for any injuries and property damage. One of the most important steps arrives near the end of the process, which is to contact a car accident attorney. The question for you is how to select the right car accident attorney for your case.
Several factors should play a role in helping you to choose the right car accident lawyer.
Experience
An experienced car accident attorney knows how to help you submit the most persuasive auto insurance claim. The claim process requires you to submit compelling physical evidence, along with the statements presented by witnesses. Experience also comes in handy for a car accident lawyer if the insurance adjuster reviewing your claim agrees to try and negotiate a settlement. If your case goes to trial, hiring an experienced car accident attorney can be the difference between winning your case and walking out of the courtroom empty-handed.
Make sure you do not measure experience strictly on years of practice. An experienced car accident attorney also should be able to present a proven record of success.
Offers a Free Consultation
An attorney who offers a free consultation provides you with the opportunity to discuss your case, as well as devise a winning strategy for filing an insurance claim. During a free consultation, a car accident lawyer should review the evidence, especially the official report filed by the responding law enforcement agency. You present witness accounts, as well as copies of your medical bills and property repair receipts, such as the receipt for auto repair work
Represents You From Start to Finish
Some attorneys meet with clients for a free consultation, only to disappear for the remainder of a case. You want the experienced attorney sitting across from you during a free consultation to represent you during every phase of the litigation and insurance claim process. You should ask at the start of a free consultation whether the lawyer sitting across from you expects to represent you the entire time. You should consider it a deal breaker if the lawyer states that another attorney will take over the case at some point.
Gets Paid by a Contingency Fee
You want the car accident attorney hired to represent you to be financially motivated. This means you should pay the lawyer on a contingency fee basis, which means your attorney gets paid when you get paid. The lawyer charges a percentage of the money that you receive from an insurance claim and/or the result of a favorable ruling during a civil lawsuit. Attorneys who charge by the hour are less motivated to push a case to the finish line.
Strong Communication Skills
Car accident attorneys work several cases at the same time. This means the lawyer that you hire might not be available when you call or send a text message. However, you should expect a prompt response every time you have a question or want to learn about the status of your case. The car accident attorney that you hire should respond to any form of communication no later than during the morning after the day when you left a message. A car accident case is stressful enough without having to deal with a lawyer who is a poor communicator.
Online Reviews
Client reviews left on sites such as Yelp and Google should indicate the skill level of a car accident attorney. You should refer to client reviews as the last factor for choosing the right car accident lawyer. Moreover, you should consider a car accident attorney who has received many positive reviews. You also can check an attorney’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page.
5 Situations When Calling a Personal Injury Lawyer is Important
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 31 million Americans receive medical care each year as a result of an accidental injury. The injuries range in severity from relatively minor cuts and bruises to significant trauma such as head injuries and fractured bones. Victims of accidental injuries work with personal injury lawyers to recover from the financial losses generated by medical bills.
Trying to recover from the financial losses generated by an accidental injury or injuries reason is the most common reason why victims seek the legal support of a state-licensed personal injury lawyer. What are the five other situations when calling a personal injury lawyer is important?
Filing an Insurance Claim
In the days following a personal injury incident, you can expect the adjuster processing your insurance claim to try settling the claim as quickly as possible. Insurance adjusters follow the motto of “pay as little as possible” when dealing with accident claims. If you do not receive the legal support of an experienced personal injury lawyer, the insurance adjuster processing your claim might try to take advantage of you.
A personal injury lawyer collects the physical evidence you need to receive compensation, such as acquiring copies of your medical bills. The official incident report represents an important document that substantiates your insurance claim. For example, if you slip and fall at a convenience store, the manager’s incident report becomes an integral part of the physical evidence.
Injuries Caused By a Defective Product or Medical Provider
If you sustained one or more injuries caused by a defective product or medical provider, a team of attorneys representing a large company works hard to defend their client against any liability claims. They might aggressively defend their client by disputing your credibility and/or delaying any legal proceedings regarding the case. Without a personal injury attorney to represent you, the chances of you receiving compensation dramatically decline.
Negotiate a Settlement
The insurance company processing your claim or the defendant in a personal injury lawsuit might come out of the gate willing to discuss a financial settlement. If this is the situation, you need the legal services of a persuasive negotiator to represent you during the back-and-forth sessions.
A personal injury lawyer submits a reasonable offer for compensation, which the other party either accepts or rejects. If the other party rejects the initial offer, you can expect to receive a counteroffer or a letter requesting that the case move to the next step in the legal or insurance claim process. Several counteroffers can follow the initial offer until both parties agree to a settlement or decide to take the case to the next phase.
Case Goes to Trial
It seems like a no-brainer, but might be surprised to learn about the large number of plaintiffs in personal injury cases who represent themselves during a civil lawsuit that seeks monetary damages. If it looks like your case is moving to the trial phase of the civil lawsuit process, you should receive the support of a personal injury attorney who has successfully litigated similar cases. A skilled litigator knows how to persuade the judge hearing the case to take your side, as well as convincingly present the physical evidence that you need to win a favorable judgment.
In addition, a personal injury attorney files a civil lawsuit before the expiration of the statute of limitations, which for most states runs between two and four years.
Appealing Your Case or Claim
If your insurance claim and/or civil lawsuit reaches the appeals stage of the process, a personal injury attorney helps you navigate through the process until you receive just compensation. You might have to submit more compelling physical evidence, as well as present a stronger argument that you deserve just compensation for your injuries and other financial obligations caused by a personal injury incident. If you did not seek legal support before the appeals stage, a personal injury attorney can reverse a negative decision made by a judge or insurance adjuster.
A Car Accident Attorney Can Help You Win Your Insurance Claims
According to several studies, an average of more than 12 million car accidents occur each year in the United States, with nearly one-third of the crashes causing some type of vehicle damage. With around 42,000 motor auto accident fatalities every year, the typical motorist in the United States can expect to get involved in a motor vehicle collision once every six years. If you get involved in a car accident, you should follow a series of steps that include contacting a car accident attorney. A personal injury lawyer who specializes in handling car accident cases provides several legal services to help you recover financially from an auto crash. Most motorists require one type of legal service, which is to file a car insurance claim.
Let’s see how a car accident attorney can help you win your insurance claims.
Communicate with the Insurance Adjuster
Insurance adjusters have one primary responsibility: To limit the value of insurance claim payouts. If you do not hire a car accident attorney to help you submit an insurance claim, the adjuster processing your claim is more likely to deny compensation. In addition, your lawyer handles all forms of communication, which allows you to focus on other objectives, such as recovering from your car accident injuries.
Complete the Insurance Claim Form
For the most part, insurance claims are straightforward, legally binding documents. However, just one mistake on an insurance claim might compel the adjuster processing the claim to deny it. Even leaving a space blank is just cause for denial. A car accident attorney walks you through each section of an auto insurance claim form, as well as meticulously reviews the document to ensure there are no errors. In addition, a car accident attorney monitors your claim to keep it moving through the review process.
Collect Physical Evidence
Submitting persuasive physical evidence is the heart of building a successful insurance claim. A car accident attorney collects physical evidence such as photos of the accident scene, as well as footage captured by a traffic and/or security camera. Your lawyer also interviews witnesses to get statements that corroborate your version of events and to support the physical evidence gathered at the scene of the crash. The formal report filed by the responding law enforcement agency also represents a convincing piece of evidence.
Calculate Monetary Damages
Another factor that strengthens your insurance claim involves calculating a reasonable value for compensation. With the help of a car accident attorney, you add up all tangible expenses, which include the value of medical and auto repair bills. Your car accident attorney obtains copies of every medical record to calculate the value of diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating your injuries. You also might qualify for insurance claim compensation because you suffer from emotional issues such as the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. (PTSD).
Negotiate a Settlement
A car accident attorney can negotiate a settlement with the insurance adjuster processing your claim. Negotiations start when your car accident attorney submits a value for compensation, which the insurance adjuster either accepts or rejects. If the insurance adjuster rejects the initial offer, several rounds of counter offers can follow until both sides agree to a settlement or decide to take the claim to the appeals stage of the review process. An experienced car accident attorney understands what constitutes a reasonable value for compensation.
South of Houston Street
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