Personal Injury
Personal injury in general.
A personal injury case is one that involves injury to a party, not just damage to his/her property. If your case involves a personal injury, we will be happy to talk to you about your representation. Remember for whom the adjuster works, and it is not for you. The only interest they are out to protect is that of the insurance company. It is their job to arrange settlement for the least amount possible. An attorney knows how to get the money one deserves for his/her injuries.
How much is my case worth?
One may want to hire an attorney who is familiar with what a jury or a judge may award based on the particular circumstances of his/her case in order to help determine what the case is worth. The insurance company often bases its settlement offer on what could be obtained by going to trial on the case.
How do I deal with adjusters?
When dealing with an insurance adjuster, it is wise not to be swayed into thinking that this person is acting on behalf of the injured party. The insurance adjuster works for the insurance company and is looking out for the best interest of the insurance company. If one is considering legal representation, he/she may not want to give a statement to the insurance adjuster.
How should I document my injury?
As soon as possible, one should write down everything remembered about how the accident happened. In addition, until he/she is fully recovered, it is wise to make daily notes about all pains and discomfort caused by the injuries. All notes about each medical treatment together with the mileage to and from the place of treatment and the expenses of any medicine purchased in connection with the injuries should be included.
Should I go to a doctor?
One should go to a doctor unless absolutely sure that he/she has not been injured. Even, if at the time of the accident one does not think he/she is injured, he/she should go to a doctor if pain or discomfort is later experienced.
How should I record my pain and expenses?
One should make daily notes of pain and discomfort. A record of all expenses in connection with his/her injury, including mileage to and from the place of treatment and any medications required for the injury, should be kept.
How should I document my lost income?
If one suffers a loss of income, his/her employer should be asked to furnish a statement of the income lost, including income lost from missing work due to the accident and from time taken for visits for medical treatment.
How soon will my case settle?
Generally no attempt will be made to settle the case until one has fully recovered from his/her injuries and has completed medical treatment. At that time information will be sent to the insurance company documenting the injuries, medical expenses and other losses. The case will be settled when the insurance company offers compensation for the injuries and losses acceptable to the injured party. If no acceptable offer is received, the case will need to be tried.
How is my lawyer paid?
One will pay his/her lawyer on an hourly fee basis. However, most personal injury cases are usually paid based upon a percentage of the recovery and after he/she has received the settlement or collected on a judgment.