One of the most common phrases uttered by personal injury clients after an accident is “I am not the type of person to sue, but…” This is because most personal injury clients have never been injured in an accident before, nor do they know much about the personal injury claims process. After an accident, few victims are thinking about making a personal injury claim or filing a lawsuit. Rather, they are in shock and want to ensure they are safe and receive treatment for their injuries. Soon after the accident, the victim may notice an increase in pain or receive a poor diagnosis, such as the need for long term therapy. Both short and long term treatment can be expensive. When the medical bills begin coming in and the pain and suffering continues, many begin to wonder about their legal options.

The law allows victims of injury to seek compensation for their damages in civil court. This means that if you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, you can file a lawsuit against your insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurance company, depending on the state and situation. Though personal injury lawsuits have gotten a bad reputation in recent years, you should not deny yourself the right to compensation just because you are embarrassed. The law has been made this way for a reason; to ensure that victims of injury have a legal avenue for seeking their just compensation for damages.

When Should I Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney?

There are several instances where it is strongly suggested that you speak with a personal injury attorney about your options after an accident. They include:

  • You Suffer Severe Injuries – The severity of your injuries is based on the cost of your medical bills, the length of time it will take you to recover and the type of injuries you have. The severity of your injuries also determines how much compensation you will receive. If you face severe injuries and know your claim is going to be high, it is best to seek the advice of an experienced lawyer when pursuing it
  • When You Face Long Term Injuries or Disability – If your accident has left you with long term injuries or permanent disability, your life will change completely. Not only could your health suffer, but you may not be able to work and have high medical bills. To ensure you are not left with the bill or lost wages, contact a personal injury attorney. They will fight to get the most out of your claim, ensuring you are properly cared for now and in the future
  • When the Insurance Company Refuses to Pay – In many cases, the insurance company will offer you a lower amount than should be acceptable. In other instances, they may deny your claim altogether. When an insurance company refuses to pay or negotiate a fair settlement, it is imperative that you seek the help of a personal injury attorney. Their experience and knowledge will ensure that you are fairly represented at the negotiating table or in the courtroom should your case go to trial

If you are not responsible for the accident, you should also not be held responsible for your damages, such as the costs of your medical treatment. If you are not pleased with what the insurance company has offered you, it is best to speak with a personal injury attorney.

In many instances, the skills and knowledge of an experienced personal injury lawyer are worth the investment you pay. You will likely need a lawyer because you may run into complex legal rules or have such severe injuries that your compensation amount will vary from the norm. Rather than placing your case and financial future on chance, speak with a personal injury attorney and discover your options. You will likely be surprised how helpful the attorney is, and how fair your resulting settlement will be.