Why Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

 Posted on November 25, 2019 in Personal Injury

When you have been injured in a car accident, a slip and fall, or any other type of incident for which another was even partially responsible, it is easy to believe that insurance companies and other parties will do the right thing. Of course, the “right thing,” from your perspective, probably looks vastly different than from theirs. You deserve to be made whole and to have whatever expenses or losses you may have incurred as a result of your injuries fully reimbursed. Depending on the nature of your case, you may also be entitled to compensation for non-monetary considerations such as pain and suffering. Unfortunately, the other party, even it is your own insurance company, may not be quite so keen on paying you what you deserve. That is why it is important to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side.

Understanding Liability

On your own, you may not be entirely sure you have the grounds or standing to file a liability claim. The other party may look to take advantage of your uncertainty, asking you to waive your rights to a claim quickly and with little more than a signature. Whether you have been injured in a truck accident or a trip and fall on commercial property, a personal injury lawyer will be much more familiar with the applicable laws and will help you determine which party or parties may be liable for damages.

Withstanding Pressure

You have the right to represent yourself in any legal proceeding, and, in many injury situations, the process begins at the negotiating table. Insurance carriers, including auto insurance, homeowner’s insurance, workers’ compensation, and third-party liability carriers, often start with outright denials of responsibility or with low-ball offers intended to end the case quickly and quietly. Out of context, the initial offer may seem to be an impressive amount, but context is exactly what is needed. In order to know what a fair settlement offer looks like, you will need to fully understand your injuries and the impact they are expected to have on your life. An attorney can help you account for all of the necessary variables and to avoid settling for less than what you need and deserve.

Reliable Advice

Once the negotiation process has gotten underway, you will need guidance and responsible counsel. It is important to understand where and when to stand your ground and when compromise may be in your best interest. An attorney can also help you decide whether to give up on negotiations altogether and to proceed to litigation. Taking your matter into the courtroom is a serious step, and one that should not be made with the help of a lawyer who knows the law and is committed to protecting your best interests.

Speak With a Rockford Injury Lawyer

For more information about how a qualified legal professional can assist with your accident case, contact an experienced Winnebago County personal injury attorney. Call 815-215-7561 to schedule a free consultation at Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Jambois, today.

Source:

https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/going-court-basics