There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to the law, and more specifically, when it comes to what lawyers actually do for their clients. If you’re in a car accident, it’s not uncommon for injured parties to get some pretty poor advice from their insurance companies. What’s worse is that their relationship with their agents often clouds their judgment. As a result, these underrepresented individuals walk away without getting a fair shake.
Does Hiring a Lawyer Cost You More?
There is a common misconception that is peddled by insurance companies that their rules are black and white and hiring a lawyer only serves to cost you more money. The narrative that they’re pushing is that hiring a lawyer won’t change your outcome. But, of course, it’s a self-serving narrative. The large insurance company has a skilled legal team at its disposal. If you don’t have appropriate representation, it makes their job easier.
Before you buy that–hook, line, and sinker, consider…
Is it fair that you might have to foot the bill for future medical treatments resulting from an accident that wasn’t your fault?
Is it fair that you paid out of pocket or that your insurance company covered a portion of medical expenses from your accident?
Is the insurance company even qualified to determine the extent of your injury and therefore the value of your compensation?
In all cases, the insurance company is happy to let you think so. But, it’s likely that a qualified lawyer can help the court see your side.
Does hiring a lawyer cost you more? It’s possible, depending on the case and the skills of the lawyer. However, in many situations, an experienced personal injury lawyer will not needlessly cost you money. Any fees paid for services will net you gains compared to the insurance companies initial offer.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
Not every personal injury case ends up in a courtroom. In fact, nearly 80% of all PI cases are settled outside of court. A personal injury lawyer can specialize in certain types of injury cases, like automobile accidents. Or, they can be a generalist, helping victims of any kind of personal injury.
A personal injury lawyer can get you different kinds of compensation. When the insurance company is telling you that they’ll only pay the balance owed on your existing medical bills, a personal injury lawyer can be there to hold them accountable for all the damages. This could include things like medical expenses, loss of wages, emotional distress, pain and suffering, among other things.
To adequately represent your interests, a personal injury lawyer may:
- Investigate Claims
- Gather Evidence
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies
- Send Demand Letters
- Prepare Pleadings
- Conduct Discovery
- Trial Representation
The Bottom Line on Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Hiring a personal injury lawyer isn’t a golden ticket to a win. When personal injury cases go to court, the outcomes can be unpredictable. But, your chances at adequate compensation are much better with legal representation. The insurance adjuster or even your agent might tell you to skip the lawyer, but that’s to help them–not you. A good lawyer will help you understand the facts of the case on the realistic outcomes you can expect with their services.