If you’ve been injured in an accident, hiring a personal injury attorney can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Navigating the complexities of personal injury law requires experience, an in-depth knowledge of relevant laws, and a strategic approach. If you or a loved one has injuries from someone’s negligence, hiring a personal injury attorney could help you recover money for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
A personal injury lawyer provides legal representation to individuals injured due to someone else’s negligence. Their primary role includes:
- Investigate the Accident — A personal injury attorney gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, reviews police reports, and more.
- Comply with Deadlines and Court Rules — Attorneys understand the rules specific to local, state, or federal courts. They will ensure your case meets all deadlines, including the statute of limitations, to file a personal injury lawsuit in your state.
- Determine Liability — A skilled personal injury lawyer determines who is responsible for your injuries, whether caused by negligence or illegal activity.
- Assess Damages — They can evaluate the extent of physical, emotional, and financial losses, including future projected effects, such as disability.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies — An attorney understands how to negotiate with insurance companies, including counter-offers, to demand maximum compensation.
- File a Personal Injury Lawsuit — Although many personal injury cases settle, an experienced attorney can prepare a case to argue before a judge or jury.
Are Personal Injury Lawyers Worth It?
One of the most common questions victims ask is whether hiring a personal injury lawyer is worth the investment. The answer is a resounding yes. Here’s why:
- According to a study by the Insurance Research Council, injured individuals who hire an attorney receive settlements 3.5 times higher than those who do not.
- Lawyers are skilled negotiators who can effectively communicate with insurance companies to obtain the best possible outcome.
- Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
What Injury Cases Do Personal Injury Lawyers Handle?
Most personal injury attorneys handle a variety of cases, including:
- Motor vehicle accidents, including car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, and rideshare
- Pedestrian accidents
- Slip and fall incidents
- Medical malpractice
- Nursing home abuse and neglect
- Workplace injuries
- Dog bites
- Premises liability
Personal Injury Lawyers Understand the Legal Process
The legal process can be daunting and confusing. A personal injury attorney guides you through each step, from filing paperwork to meeting legal deadlines. They help you understand your rights and the potential outcomes of your case at each phase, providing crucial support and advocacy, including:
Initial Consultation
Many personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations. They evaluate your case by reviewing the details of the accident and available evidence. They give you their honest assessment on the likelihood of recovering compensation. During this stage, you can also ask questions and clarify any concerns you might have about the legal process.
Investigation
If you decide to hire an attorney, they have the resources to collect evidence to determine liability and the extent of your injuries and loss. This might include interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and obtaining copies of the police or accident report. They may also collaborate with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, to strengthen your case.
Insurance Claim
A personal injury lawyer can prepare and file a claim with the insurance company for an amount commensurate with your losses. They ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted and follow up diligently to push your claim forward.
Negotiation
Insurance companies try to settle as cheaply as possible. A skilled personal injury lawyer understands how to maximize potential compensation. They will negotiate on your behalf, countering lowball offers and striving to secure a fair settlement that truly reflects your damages.
Litigation
While many personal injury cases don’t go to court, look for a lawyer who is comfortable presenting your side to a judge or jury. Your attorney will develop a strong legal strategy, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make compelling arguments to advocate for your best interests in court if necessary.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps one of the most valuable benefits of hiring a personal injury attorney is the peace of mind they provide. Knowing that a knowledgeable and experienced professional is handling your case allows you to focus on your recovery and well-being. This support alleviates the stress and uncertainty of dealing with legal complexities on your own.
Compensation You Could Recover
Personal injury lawyers understand your frustration and stress when someone’s negligence harms you. The resulting medical bills and other expenses quickly add to a seemingly impossible debt. Each case is unique, but many injury cases involve pursuing compensation for:
- Medical bills, both past and future
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Reduced earning capacity resulting from long-term effects of the injury
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Necessary modifications to your home or vehicle
- Ongoing care needs
- Loss of enjoyment of life and activities
The Contingency Fee Basis Advantage
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. Under a contingency fee arrangement, your attorney will take a percentage of the settlement or award. This percentage is agreed upon before the case begins and typically ranges from 25 to 40 percent.
Here are several benefits to you when you engage an attorney who works on contingency:
- No Upfront Costs — You do not owe a retainer or out-of-pocket money for an attorney to start on your case.
- Motivation for Success — Since you pay no fees unless your lawyer secures compensation for you, they have an incentive to obtain the highest possible settlement or verdict.
- Accessible Legal Representation — A contingency fee eliminates the money barrier to legal representation without discriminating against anyone’s financial situation.
Call for a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
The The Bruner Law Firm has been helping injured individuals in the Florida Panhandle and Southeast Alabama since 1992. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you understand your legal options and demand maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. You owe us nothing unless we win your case. If you or a loved one are the victim of someone’s negligence or wrongdoing, call The Bruner Law Firm today. We are happy to meet with you wherever it is most convenient to evaluate your case. Get your free consultation today. Contact us online or call us today at (850) 243-2222.
