After an accident, you may be left feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. Of course, medical treatment comes first. But after that, what would be your ideal course of action?
If you live in Florida, you may wonder if you should hire a personal injury attorney. Well, here are potential scenarios calling for the input of knowledgeable legal professionals like Grossman Attorneys at Law.
1. Navigating the Claim Process
In case of an accident, you are entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, property damage, and more. Documenting such elements takes effort, and it’s easy for evidence to disappear or your memory to fade. Besides, the process of filing a personal injury claim can be complex. Hence, it helps to have an experienced attorney on your side.
Florida is a no-fault state, meaning you’re less likely to encounter bottlenecks when pursuing compensation, at least in theory. In practice, however, you might have to contend with a different kettle of fish.
For starters, it’s common knowledge that insurers are mostly concerned about their interests. As a result, your insurer may not welcome the idea of fully settling your claim for bills or other losses.
Full disclosure; insurers employ armies of adjusters and – you guessed it – lawyers to evaluate claims. That means if you strike out on your own, you would have your work cut out as you try to battle Goliath.
Instead, a competent lawyer can help level the playing field and lessen the odds of getting a low-ball offer. The reality is that a legal representative can ensure you get at least three to six times more in a settlement than if you opt to go it alone.
Plus, it is essential to have an attorney who understands Florida’s injury laws and knows how to navigate the state’s legal system. Besides, they can help you recover damages that may not be covered by insurance. Plainly put, it helps to discuss your legal options with an attorney.
2. Disability
An accident can result in temporary and, sometimes permanent disability. And if someone else’s negligence is to blame, you may need a reputable attorney to prove your claim.
And remember, the other party will have legal counsel battling for them. So, it would help if you had a well-trained personal injury lawyer in your corner. They can investigate the accident and gather evidence to ascertain the level of negligence attributable to the other party. That way, your attorney can best determine the claim you deserve.
If you’re indisposed, it helps to know that someone is genuinely looking out for your interests, right? And truth be told, the period following an accident should be meant for recovery – not chasing after an insurance company or the negligent party. So if you can, get an attorney to help with your case.
3. You Want to Proceed to Trial
Sometimes, an accident is serious enough that both parties prefer to take the case to trial. If this happens, you need an attorney who understands the ins and outs of litigating personal injury cases. They will be responsive enough to gather evidence, witness testimony, and expert opinion to support your claim.
If push comes to shove, and your insurer doesn’t want to budge, you may consider taking them to court to iron matters out. Now would also be a good time to state that most insurers prefer settling matters out of court, as the legal process could damage their reputation. Thus, the presence of a well-respected lawyer could cause them to think twice about tripping you up.
That said, in circumstances where it’s difficult to prove fault, expect an insurance company to put up a spirited fight during negotiations. As a result, the negotiations may be unsuccessful. So, litigation may be the last resort if you hit a dead end or contest their low-ball offer. But, getting the right representation implies having an attorney who has taken cases to trial and knows how to win.
All factors considered, every battle requires adequate preparation. Having all your resources ready means, you can face the challenge ahead from a position of strength. If you’re unsure whether or not you should hire a personal injury attorney, the best course of action is to speak with one.
An experienced attorney can review your case and help you understand your legal options. And if you decide to move forward with a claim, they can help you navigate the complex legal process and maximize the chances of a fruitful resolution of your issue.