Surviving an accident however minor can leave you with physical and emotional bruises. The severity could push the healing process, and it may drag on for months. Several visits to the doctor may leave you with a financial burden and you may opt to engage the insurance company in a settlement. On their part, the objective is to part with the lowest offer possible and if you are not keen, you could end up with an unfairly computed claim.
Experienced attorneys
Once you get injured by an automobile, defective product or medical negligence, you should consult a personal injury attorney. It takes a lot of skill to file a lawsuit. Besides, one must have a thorough understanding of the law. While you may weigh your options and consider taking what the offender offers, an experienced attorney can get you more. FCRA attorney Jamie Cogburn can provide you with consultation and any other assistance to make your case successful.
Settlement amount
Before staking a claim, figure out the amount you want. In your consideration, factor in things like cost of medical treatment lost income and funeral expenses if any. Discuss the figures with your attorney. They will even help you raise the stakes, especially where you suffered severe injuries. Lawyers are skilled negotiators hence the more reason for you to hire one.
Know when an attorney comes in handy
There are times when you opt to go to the negotiating table alone. At times it could be due to fear of paying legal fees, or you felt that you can handle the matter. Regardless, let not the option of hiring an attorney be far from reach. You need an attorney when:
- Serious injuries are involved.
- You have future costs to incur.
- The responding party questions your claim.
What to look for in personal injury attorneys
Specialization
Like doctors, lawyers have their areas of specialization. You do not rush into the first law office you come across and insist on hiring a lawyer. You should first ensure that your legal practitioner of choice specializes in personal injury cases.
Reputation
It helps to learn what people have to say about the services offered. You could find out from people who have had their matters resolved in the hands of the attorneys in question. With plenty of information online, research the firm and find views posted. These will give you an insight into the lawyer’s firm.
Focus shown on your case
An attorney with many cases in their hands may not give you the attention you deserve. You could spend anxious days waiting for their call with none coming. From the first meeting with them, assess the way they talk to you. Ascertain their availability by how often they return your calls or respond to your emails.
Experienced attorneys can expedite the claims process quickly. They have handled many such cases before. Before negotiations start, always have an expected figure in mind and use it as a bargaining chip. Also, know when to seek legal services and the qualities to look for in your prospects.