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This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.
As we all know, accidents happen, and in America, accidents that result in injury can be quite common. As recently as 2017, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported there were 29.4 million emergency department visits for unintentional injuries and 39.5 physician office visits for the same.
With injuries caused by unexpected accidents a daily occurrence across the nation, it can be helpful to know ahead of time what to do should you or a loved one become injured. One thing to think about is when it would be the right time to contact a personal injury lawyer.
Some might scoff at the idea of needing legal representation when injured, thinking that with easy access to information provided by the internet and its army of legal websites, anyone can navigate the waters of civil litigation and personal injury law. While that might work in some cases, having an expert on your side is never a bad thing.
And given the fact that any personal injury attorney worth his or her salt would offer a free consultation and work on a contingency basis (meaning they only charge a fee if you win), there is every reason to at least reach out to a qualified personal injury attorney in your area.
If you’re still hesitant, here are three instances when you should call a personal injury lawyer.
1) If Your Injuries Are Serious
The more serious your injuries the more serious your case. If the injuries you have incurred have resulted in medical bills, lost wages, and other unexpected costs there will be a lot to juggle as you make your case to your insurance company.
While trying to recover and adjust to life with your injuries the last thing you need is a battle with a claims adjuster. Calling a personal injury lawyer when you are seriously injured gives you one more person on your side, an expert advocating that you receive the compensation you are due.
2) If Liability Isn’t Clear
Not every case is cut and dry. Even if you think you have a handle on who is at fault for your injuries, a personal injury lawyer and their experienced eye might see something you have overlooked. A lawyer will know and understand the liability statutes, relevant procedures, latest case law in your state. They might even find liable parties you never even thought of.
3) If Your Insurance Company Isn’t Cooperating
We all love insurance company commercials with their colorful characters and memorable catchphrases. But it is important to remember that insurance companies are private entities and most concerned with churning out acceptable levels of profits. Costly claims hurt an insurance company’s bottom line and in many cases claims adjusters are instructed to do everything they can to minimize what the company owes to policyholders.
If you have met with a claims adjuster and they have given you a low offer to settle the claim, or if your insurance company dragged their feet or neglected your calls, it is time to call a personal injury lawyer.
Calling a Personal Injury Lawyer
Making that first call to a personal injury lawyer can be nerve-wracking and stressful. But it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve been
- seriously injured,
- are unsure of who is liable for your injuries,
- or if your insurance company isn’t cooperating
Now is the perfect time to call a qualified personal injury attorney in your area. And don’t forget that the initial consultation will cost you nothing and be risk-free.
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This content is brought to you by Mariano Rodriguez.
Photo: Shutterstock