If you have been hurt in an accident, you may be wondering if you need to retain an attorney to represent you. It is always advisable for accident victims to retain a lawyer, and here are three reasons why.
You Probably Don’t Know What Your Case is Worth
Most personal injury cases are resolved by negotiating a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Generally speaking, your settlement should compensate you for all of your losses and approximate what your case would be worth if it went to trial. While establishes economic losses that have already happened (like medical bills and property damage) is a relatively straightforward process, the same is not true for future losses or noneconomic injuries like physical and emotional pain or suffering. The assistance of an attorney will ensure that you get the compensation to which you are legally entitled.
You Could Inadvertently Hurt Your Case
If you choose to represent yourself in your personal injury case, you could say or do things that may jeopardize your chances of recovering compensation. For example, in some contexts, a simple apology could be interpreted as an admission of liability. Even if you do not completely admit fault, if you mistakenly say something that indicates partial liability, it could significantly affect the amount of compensation you end up receiving. When you retain a lawyer, he or she will communicate with the insurance company or the adverse party on your behalf, ensuring that you do not say or do anything to hurt your case.
You Need to be Prepared to Go to Trial
If the insurance company that you are dealing with is unwilling or unable to make a reasonable settlement offer, it may be necessary to take your case to trial. The process of filing and conducting a personal injury lawsuit is extremely complicated and attempting to represent yourself puts you at a distinct disadvantage. Insurance companies are sophisticated parties that are in the business of denying claims and undoubtedly have a team of skilled insurance defense lawyers ready to litigate a case at the drop of a hat. As an accident victim, you need to prepared to take your case to trial, even if doing so is simply strengthening your bargaining position in settlement negotiations.
At Torgenson Law, we are committed to helping good people that have been hurt by the carelessness of others recover for their injuries. To schedule a free case evaluation, call our office today at (602) 726-0747 or send us an email through our online contact form.
