Attorney talking on mobile device and playing with Justice scale in law office, selective focus on statue of Lady Justice
An accident or injury can cause a great deal of disruption to your life. You may feel scared, worried or angry, especially if your pain was caused by someone else’s actions or negligence. One of the first questions many have in such circumstances is whether they should pursue legal action for their suffering. You might not be sure whether you have a valid claim. Perhaps you worry about having the money to afford a lawyer. Navigating any type of court case on your own can be daunting. Injury claims are particularly complex. For some insight, keep reading to learn more about when your family should contact a personal injury attorney.
Your Injury Is Life-Altering
If you have suffered a serious injury that has led to a disability or other significant impact to your life, it may be best to consult with an attorney. You could look at a lifetime of suffering and you may be entitled to compensation for your loss. You shouldn’t have to suffer financial hardship, diminished quality of life or other difficulties due to the actions of others. A qualified attorney can let you know if you have a personal injury claim.
Fault Isn’t Clear
If you are unsure who is at fault for your pain or injury, it is most certainly wise to get the advice of an attorney. Insurance companies have experts working for them to try to avoid paying more than they have to. You don’t want to face these companies on your own. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer is a smart step to ensure someone is looking out for your best interests.
Your Claim Is Denied
In some cases, the insurance company may have already denied your claim. They’re betting on the fact that you don’t understand all of the complex laws, policies and procedures involved in bringing a suit to court. They think you don’t know what you’re entitled to, and they’re betting on the fact that you’ll walk away. However, there is often something you can do. Don’t let them wear you down or intimidate you. Expert San Bernardino attorneys state that “the California Code of Civil Procedure stipulates that you have up to two years from the time when you were injured to file your lawsuit.” It is important to check the laws in your specific state as laws differ across the country. If you reach out to a professional, they can inform you of your options and help you get the compensation you deserve. They can also determine if you have a case and make sure you’re compensated fairly.
Multiple Parties Are Involved
Things can become extra complicated if you’re involved in an accident with multiple parties. Everyone will try to shift the blame. You don’t want to be the one stuck shouldering other people’s burden. You also don’t want to be stuck dealing with numerous insurance companies. Your lawyer has the know-how to cut through the red tape to determine the best outcome for you. A lawyer can also help to retrieve any compensation you’re owed from more than one party.
Accident Investigations Are Insufficient
Initial accident investigations are undertaken by insurance companies and police to discover who is at fault. Unfortunately, these investigations may not be very thorough due to lack of time or resources. They can also be biased or lacking in all of the necessary details to illustrate the whole picture. Your personal injury attorneys will work to conduct an independent thorough investigation. They will be sure to interview all relevant witnesses, find necessary evidence and obtain any surveillance footage so that they can reconstruct events as they occurred. They’ll get to the bottom of things and clearly demonstrate your side of events.
Statute of Limitations Runs Out
You don’t have all the time in the world to bring a claim when an injury is involved. Each state has its own policies regarding personal injury cases. Having a lawyer on your side ensures that you won’t be too late in bringing your suit to court. Investigations and negotiations take a great deal of time and dedication. Your lawyer will be able to take on the work involved to prove damage while also being mindful of impending deadlines. It would be devastating to invest all that effort into building a case for nothing.
You may not always need a lawyer’s help in every case. However, when it comes to accidents or negligence, you should contact a personal injury attorney for a consultation. Doing so will save you frustration and can ensure you get the compensation you’re entitled to.
