Imagine starting your day with big plans. Those plans would likely not include getting injured. However, it is a possible reality. Accidents happen to unsuspecting individuals every day, and many of the accidents are caused by the negligence of one or more individuals. Accident victims might be entitled to compensation, but the crux of their cases is proving negligence. These cases are in the category of law referred to as personal injury. There are laws governing personal injury, and each state has its own statutes. The judicial process involves civil court, but it is possible for defendants to face criminal and civil charges. The following points identify reasons you should rely on a personal injury law firm if you are ever injured due to someone else's negligence.
Familiar With Claims
Perhaps you have filed an auto insurance claim and found the experience easy to navigate. Personal injury claims are not a claim type that the average individual is prepared or educated to do. These are complex cases that sometimes involve using investigative techniques. Some victims underestimate the value of their claims and may accept subpar settlement offers if they do not have legal counsel. Others overestimate their claims. A law firm can offer a consultation, which is usually free. They can determine if a case needs to be pursued and the likelihood of compensation being awarded.
Familiar With Personal Injury Laws
Knowing the personal injury statutes where an incident occurs is imperative. There are clauses that determine how long victims have to file a claim. Some states have laws pertaining to comparative negligence. These laws compare the victim and alleged negligent party's responsibility in the incident that resulted in the injury. If the at-fault party is deemed totally responsible for the incident, the injured individual receives the full judgment. However, if the at-fault party or their insurance company can prove that the victim's actions partly contributed to the injury incident, the court will deduct a percentage from the victim's judgment.
Familiar With Insurance Companies and Settlement Negotiations
Most law firms are familiar with insurance companies by name. They likely have experience with some of the insurance company lawyers. This equips them to be able to ascertain how certain insurance companies respond to claims. They can also strategize negotiations on settlement offers and determine if they are fair. If a settlement is offered and accepted, the case does not have to go through the legal system.
When recovering from injuries, most individuals do not have the energy required to act on their behalf making decisions. This can cause them to make rushed decisions that can negatively impact their potential compensation. Personal injury law firms can be used as a resource to navigate these complex cases.
After I was involved in a car accident, I knew that I couldn't go on doing my normal routine. I could barely walk, much less work, which is why I started to panic when the medical bills started rolling in. I began thinking about what I could do to make things right, and I realized that I really needed to work with a lawyer. I began talking with my lawyer about getting the compensation I needed, and he was instrumental in helping me to heal emotionally and financially. Check out this blog for great tips on working with an accident and injury attorney.