When you’ve been injured, hiring a lawyer may be the last thing on your mind. However, an accident can change your life, whether it’s a fender bender or an act of violence. Having a licensed professional on your side to represent you and help you navigate the aftermath is invaluable, and may affect the compensation you receive as a result.
Knowledge of the law
The major reason not to represent yourself in court, especially for something as important as a personal injury case, is a lack of familiarity with the intricacies of the law. A lawyer will have familiarity with cases like yours, and whether safety standards or training have been breached. They will also know exactly how the law in your area is interpreted and applied in your state. For example, Adam S. Kutner Accident & Injury Attorneys, who work out of Las Vegas, will have an intricate knowledge of the local bylaws and state rules that may not be the same in Katy, Texas. If you think you can’t afford representation, the Texas Bar Association has tips.
This knowledge can mean the difference between a win and a loss. It also means your attorney has the knowledge to answer your questions, assuage your concerns, and help you focus at a difficult time in your life. You have an ally who understands your current situation. You can ask questions as needed, and get honest answers so you can make properly informed decisions while focusing on your healing and recovery.
Assisting with insurance negotiations
Personal injury lawyers don’t merely help with litigation. For the insured, or those claiming on an insured party’s policy, they can help you get the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies will act to protect their shareholders, not do right by a claimant. Bad faith tactics are common, including offering too little or denying valid claims, in the hopes you don’t know better.
Having someone well versed in rights and law to handle the negotiations will help you get the settlement you deserve, not the one they want to give you. People who defend themselves seldom get the same consideration.
Save money and time
Hiring proper legal counsel and avoiding mistakes throughout the proceeding not only speeds things up, but can save you money as well. You will not run the risk of getting lowballed on your settlement, nor will you find your motion rejected due to paperwork errors and other mistakes that eat time, energy, and money.
Court representation
A good lawyer has a case history of successful trial verdicts and negotiations. This can have an impact and encourage open negotiation and a good settlement. Court is inconvenient and expensive. Even if they don’t offer a better deal, you still know you can proceed to court to get your dues.
From tackling the nitty-gritty of your claim, to advocating for you in your time of need, a personal injury lawyer helps you navigate a difficult time of life to its best possible outcome. Don’t be afraid to reach out to one if you find yourself in need.