If you have been injured in an accident—whether it be on the job, at the mall, in a car, or some other location—consulting with an injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and help you recover any damages to which you are entitled. Asking questions is the best way to find out exactly where you stand, and there are certain questions an attorney should always be able to answer.
What are your legal rights?
Any attorney you speak with should be able to tell you, in no uncertain terms, exactly what your rights are regarding your potential case. As you provide information, the attorney should also be able to tell you if your case has merit, and why it can or cannot move forward.
Are you or the other party at fault?
Because personal injury laws are complicated, an attorney who specializes in this field must be able to tell you who is at fault and explain how he or she reached that opinion. This information is vital in deciding what to prepare for and what course of action to pursue.
What happens next?
An injury lawyer will be able to tell you what to expect during the process. In addition, he or she will tell you who will be doing what, and let you know all the information and material you’ll need to gather. The attorney will also let you know who will be handling your case, and why that individual is the best option. In addition, the attorney should also give you an overview of what statutes are involved, deadlines that must be met, and any obligations you will have.
How do you determine the extent of your injury related costs and expenses?
An attorney who practices personal injury law should have the experience necessary to help you assess the costs and expenses related to your injury. These include current and projected costs so that you’ll know what a fair settlement should be.
Is the offer you received fair, or in the interests of the insurance company?
When an insurance company makes a settlement offer, your attorney will be able to tell you if the amount is fair and if it should be accepted or rejected. Insurance companies are in business to make money, and part of that process is paying out as little as possible; being fair is not part of the equation. An injury attorney is interested only in what is best for you, and has the professional acumen to let you know if you should accept or reject an offer based on the merits of your case.
When you’ve been injured, you don’t have to go it alone. An injury lawyer is experienced in this particular field of law and can answer all of your questions about your case, determine if you are entitled to compensation, and help you understand your rights so that you can make an informed decision as to whether or not to pursue legal action.