In the U.S., nearly 400,000 personal injury claims were filed annually, primarily in state courts. And according to RunSensible, approximately 95% of personal injury cases are resolved through settlements before reaching trial.
If you believe you have grounds to file a personal injury suit, you must show the full extent of those damages and prove that they only resulted from the defendant’s actions and were not caused by other factors, says a New Orleans personal injury attorney.
Consider hiring a personal injury lawyer if your injury is serious. Legal assistance helps your case if you have extensive medical treatment or long-term disability. A lawyer can help you pursue compensation that reflects the full extent of your damages.
Legal assistance is not always necessary. Minor injuries with clear liability can be handled even without the help of a lawyer. This article will outline the scenarios where the assistance of a lawyer is beneficial.
Understanding the Severity of Your Injury
Evaluating your symptoms can help you understand the gravity of your injury. Is the injury causing a lot of pain, swelling, and immobilization? These are signs that may mean a more serious injury.
Consider also the effect the injury has on your day-to-day life. Can you still carry out basic tasks? Has your ability to do simple tasks been affected? If it has caused changes in your work or personal life, then recognizing it becomes critical.
Chronic pains, especially those that worsen over time, should not be ignored. Also, see a doctor immediately. A professional’s opinion would underline the injury’s severity and treatment needed.
A wrongful death claim can hold the responsible party liable for any negligence or reckless actions that have resulted in your injury. Wrongful death lawyer Michael D. Cleaves says victims can claim compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and funeral and burial costs.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Going through an insurance company can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you have suffered personal injuries. There are complex business terminologies and plenty of policies that can easily confuse you.
Gather medical records and accident reports that may be relevant to your case. Avoid adjusters who may minimize your injury or pressure you into a modest settlement. Stay true to the facts and avoid unnecessary personal information.
If you’re unsure or feeling pressured, hire an attorney. He will help you negotiate most favorably and make sure that you get a fair settlement.
Missing Work or Income
An injured person is usually unable to come to work, causing significant financial problems.
If your earning power has been mitigated in the slightest, it becomes important to understand your options. Record the days you miss and document the income lost, as they will be vital to your case.
Immediately consult the services of a lawyer if the injury hinders your return to work or diminishes your earning capabilities. The lawyer will aid you in positioning yourself for potential compensation for lost wages.
Liability Disputes
When several parties are involved, disputes about liability are likely to be raised. Addressing these matters sooner rather than later will strengthen your personal injury case.
These challenges in liability can be resolved by hiring a skilled lawyer. Lawyers can collect evidence, interview witnesses, and study facts rigorously to present a strong case.
Delaying legal help will only compromise your chances of getting fair compensation.
Understanding the issues surrounding liability is the key to handling your personal injury claim with due diligence.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Personal injury cases can have consequences that go beyond simple physical damages.
You may face severe emotional and psychological obstacles. Depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress can disrupt your relationships with family and friends and harm your health.
Recognizing and affirming such feelings is vital. Therapy and counseling can assist, but one should not do it alone. A lawyer can advise you on case factors, including emotional distress.
MindOwl Founder – My own struggles in life have led me to this path of understanding the human condition. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy before completing a master’s degree in psychology at Regent’s University London. I then completed a postgraduate diploma in philosophical counselling before being trained in ACT (Acceptance and commitment therapy).
I’ve spent the last eight years studying the encounter of meditative practices with modern psychology.