A injury lawyer is a person who is legally qualified to represent clients in personal injury cases, which involve claims for damages sustained due to the negligent actions of another party. The right injury lawyer can help victims navigate legal hurdles, medical access and insurance coverage issues that might otherwise make the case more challenging. They can also advise victims about what steps to take following an accident, including getting appropriate medical treatment to support damage claims, and how best to protect themselves from potential repercussions resulting from speaking with at-fault parties or their insurers.
In some states, like New York, the term “personal injury” encompasses a broad range of areas, and it’s important to find a lawyer who has specific experience in your area of need. For example, if you suffered injuries in a car accident, you need a lawyer who specializes in personal injury and automobile law, or if you were hurt at work, you need a worker’s compensation attorney. The right attorney can help you determine if you are entitled to compensation for your injury, and how much it’s worth.
Before choosing an injury lawyer, ask for a free consultation and review their track record. Look at how long they’ve been in business, and the types of cases they’ve handled. How complex are their cases? How many settlements have they obtained for their clients, and how many of those settlements were reached through mediation or arbitration rather than a trial? How often do they try cases to verdict, and what percentage of their caseload is made up of personal injury cases?
When considering an injury lawyer, also consider their fees. Most personal injury attorneys charge on a contingency basis, meaning they’re only paid if they win your case. However, there are other expenses to factor in, such as court filing fees, charges for expert witnesses, physician reports and more. It’s also important to note that some firms may have hidden costs, so be sure to ask about these before you sign a contract.
Finally, if the lawyer you are considering rejects your case, be sure to get a second opinion. It could be that they’re too busy or the case is outside of their scope of practice, but it can also be a good idea to get a second opinion. It’s not uncommon for a lawyer to have a different perspective on the case that you do, and it can make all the difference in your outcome.
Once you’ve found the right injury lawyer, be sure to contact all parties involved in your case and let them know that your attorney is representing you. All communication should go through your attorney, and they should handle all communications with the other side’s attorneys and insurance companies on your behalf. This is important, as it can avoid confusion and protect your privacy. Moreover, it can prevent you from accidentally saying something that would harm your case later on.