After an accident, you’re suddenly faced with a world of confusing terms and processes. Insurance adjusters, medical liens, and statutes of limitations can make your head spin when you should be focused on healing. This is why understanding the role of a personal injury lawyer is so important. They act as your professional guide, translating the complexities of the legal system into a clear, manageable plan. Their purpose is to build a strong case on your behalf, handling everything from gathering evidence to fighting for a fair settlement, so you don’t have to face it alone. This article breaks down exactly what they do.

Key Takeaways

A Lawyer Manages the Complexities for You: A personal injury lawyer handles the entire legal process—from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies—so you can focus on your recovery.
Your Actions After an Accident Are Crucial: Protect your case from the start by seeking prompt medical attention, avoiding recorded statements with the other party’s insurance adjuster, and understanding the full value of your claim before accepting any offer.
You Don’t Need Money Upfront to Hire an Attorney: Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they successfully recover money for you. This system allows you to get expert legal help without any out-of-pocket costs.

What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Actually Do?

When you’re hurt and overwhelmed, the legal system can feel like the last thing you want to deal with. That’s where a personal injury lawyer steps in. Think of them as your dedicated advocate, someone who handles the complex legal work so you can focus on what truly matters: your recovery. Their job is to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you need to get your life back on track after an accident caused by someone else’s carelessness.

From the moment you hire them, they take on the burden of managing your claim. This involves a lot more than just filing paperwork. A good lawyer starts by conducting a thorough investigation into your accident, gathering crucial evidence like police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong foundation for your case. They become your professional voice, handling all communications with insurance companies. This is a critical role, as adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Your lawyer levels the playing field, working to negotiate a fair settlement that covers all your damages—from medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering. While most cases are resolved through negotiation, if a fair agreement can’t be reached, your lawyer is prepared to represent you in court, advocating for your rights before a judge and jury. They manage the entire legal process, allowing you to heal without the added stress of a legal battle.

The Kinds of Cases They Handle

A personal injury lawyer helps people who have been harmed—physically or emotionally—due to the negligence of another person or entity. While car accidents are one of the most common reasons to seek help, their expertise covers a wide range of situations. This includes injuries from slips and falls on someone else’s property (premises liability), harm caused by defective products, and accidents that happen in the workplace. These attorneys also handle more complex cases like medical malpractice, where a healthcare professional’s mistake leads to injury. Essentially, if you were hurt and it wasn’t your fault, a lawyer can assess your situation to see if you have a valid claim across any of these practice areas.

How They Investigate Your Case

A thorough investigation is the bedrock of any successful personal injury claim. Your lawyer acts as a detective, working to uncover all the facts of your case. This process starts with a detailed interview with you but quickly expands to gathering critical evidence. They will obtain official documents like police and accident reports, collect all of your medical records to document your injuries, and may even hire experts to reconstruct the accident scene. They also track down and interview any witnesses who can provide a firsthand account of what happened. This meticulous evidence-gathering is what allows your lawyer to prove fault and demonstrate the full impact the injury has had on your life.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies for You

Dealing with insurance companies on your own can be incredibly difficult. Adjusters are skilled negotiators whose job is to protect their company’s financial interests, which often means offering you as little as possible. A personal injury lawyer takes over this entire process for you. They handle all calls, emails, and paperwork, shielding you from the pressure and tactics adjusters often use. Armed with the evidence from their investigation, your lawyer will build a compelling demand package and negotiate from a position of strength. Their goal is to secure a settlement that fully compensates you for your medical expenses, lost income, and the personal toll of your injuries.

Representing You in Court

While everyone hopes for a fair settlement, sometimes the other party or their insurance company refuses to be reasonable. When that happens, you need an attorney who is not afraid to go to trial. Having a lawyer who is a skilled and experienced litigator is a major advantage. It shows the other side you are serious about your claim and won’t be pushed into accepting a lowball offer. If your case does go to court, your lawyer will manage every step, from selecting a jury to presenting evidence and arguing on your behalf. This readiness to fight for you in a courtroom provides powerful leverage during negotiations and is your ultimate protection. If you’re facing this situation, the best first step is a confidential conversation with an attorney.

Do I Really Need a Personal Injury Lawyer? When to Make the Call

After an accident, you have a lot on your plate. The thought of adding a legal case to the mix can feel overwhelming. While a minor fender-bender with no injuries might not require legal help, many situations absolutely do. Trying to handle a serious claim on your own can leave you with a settlement that doesn’t even begin to cover your costs. So, how do you know when it’s time to call a professional? If you find yourself in any of the following situations, it’s a clear sign that you need an experienced lawyer in your corner.

If Your Injuries Are Serious

This is the most important signal. If you’ve suffered injuries that require significant medical treatment, ongoing care, or have a long-term impact on your life, you need a lawyer. Serious injuries aren’t just broken bones; they include anything that causes lasting physical or psychological harm due to someone else’s negligence. The more severe your injuries, the higher the financial stakes. An attorney will fight to ensure your compensation covers everything from current medical bills and lost wages to future therapy and diminished quality of life. They understand how to calculate these complex costs to protect your future.

If It’s Unclear Who’s at Fault

Accidents aren’t always straightforward. In a multi-car pile-up or a slip-and-fall case, determining who is legally responsible can be tricky. When fault is disputed, you can bet the other party’s insurance company will do everything it can to pin the blame on you. Before even taking a case, a lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties and assess the strength of your claim. They have the resources to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts to build your case. Don’t try to prove liability on your own—let a professional handle it.

If Your Case Involves Complex Issues

Winning a personal injury case isn’t just about telling your story; it’s about proving negligence in a court of law. This means showing that the other party had a duty to act with care, that they failed in that duty, and that their failure directly caused your injuries. These legal standards require specific evidence and a compelling argument. If your accident involves a commercial vehicle, a government entity, or a defective product, the legal rules become even more complicated. An attorney who specializes in personal injury law knows how to handle these complexities and present your case effectively.

If the Insurance Company Is Giving You the Runaround

Remember, insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their primary goal is to protect their bottom line by paying out as little as possible. If you’re getting lowball offers, facing endless delays, or feeling pressured to accept a quick settlement, you’re getting the runaround. Having a lawyer is crucial for dealing with insurance companies, especially when they are being uncooperative. As soon as you hire an attorney, the adjuster has to go through them. This simple step levels the playing field and signals to the insurer that you won’t be taken advantage of. If you’re ready to stop the cycle, it’s time to make the call.

How to Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer

Finding the right lawyer can feel like a monumental task, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of an injury. But just as you would carefully select a trusted advisor for any other major life decision, choosing the best attorney can dramatically impact the outcome of your case. You’re not just hiring a legal expert; you’re looking for a partner who will stand by you, fight for you, and guide you through a complicated process. Taking the time to find someone with the right skills, experience, and approach is one of the most important steps you can take toward securing the justice you deserve.

Look for Relevant Experience and Specialization

Not all lawyers handle personal injury cases, and even those who do might specialize in different areas. You wouldn’t see a heart surgeon for a broken arm, and the same logic applies here. Look for a lawyer with substantial, proven experience in personal injury law. More specifically, find someone with a track record of success in cases similar to yours, whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall, or another type of incident. An attorney who focuses on specific practice areas will understand the unique challenges of your case and know the best strategies to pursue. This specialized knowledge is invaluable when it comes to building a strong claim on your behalf.

Check Their Track Record

A lawyer’s history can tell you a lot about what you can expect. While past results don’t guarantee a future outcome, a consistent track record of success is a strong indicator of competence and dedication. Look for an attorney who is not only known for securing fair settlements and verdicts but also for their professional reputation. Do other lawyers respect them? Are they active in legal communities? A good lawyer builds a reputation based on integrity, skill, and a commitment to their clients. This often leads to strong recommendations and lasting professional relationships, showing that they are trusted by both the people they represent and their peers in the legal field.

Read What Past Clients Say

Testimonials and online reviews are your window into the real client experience. While a lawyer’s website can tell you about their qualifications, hearing from past clients tells you what it’s actually like to work with them. Did they feel heard, respected, and kept in the loop? Were their questions answered promptly? Reading about other people’s experiences can help you find an attorney who will truly advocate for your best interests. Pay attention to comments about communication, compassion, and professionalism. Learning more about a lawyer and their approach can help you find someone who will help you handle the complexities of the legal system with confidence.

Find a Lawyer Who Communicates Well

Clear and consistent communication is the foundation of a good attorney-client relationship. You should never feel like you’re in the dark about your own case. A good personal injury lawyer will take the time to explain your rights, the legal process, and your options in a way that you can understand—no confusing legal jargon. They should be accessible and responsive, providing regular updates on your case’s progress. During your initial conversations, notice their communication style. Do they listen to your story and answer your questions directly? Finding a lawyer who communicates well ensures you feel like a valued partner in your case, not just another file number.

Key Questions to Ask in Your Consultation

Your initial consultation is your opportunity to interview a potential lawyer and decide if they’re the right fit. Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions to make an informed decision. Being prepared can help you get the most out of this meeting and leave with a clear sense of direction.

Here are a few key questions to consider asking:

Have you handled cases like mine before? What were the outcomes?
What is your assessment of my case?
How will you keep me updated on my case, and how often should I expect to hear from you?
Who will be my primary point of contact at your firm?
What are the next steps if I decide to hire you?

This conversation is your chance to confirm that you’ve found the right legal partner. When you’re ready, you can schedule a consultation to get started.

How Do Personal Injury Lawyers Get Paid?

One of the biggest worries people have after an accident is how they’ll afford legal help, especially when they’re already facing medical bills and lost wages. It’s a valid concern, but most personal injury lawyers have a payment structure designed to remove that financial barrier. This approach allows you to get experienced legal support without paying anything upfront. Instead of adding to your financial stress, the right lawyer invests in your case, getting paid only when they successfully recover money for you. This system ensures that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their financial situation.

What Is a Contingency Fee?

Most personal injury lawyers work on what’s called a contingency fee basis. This simply means their payment is contingent on winning your case. You don’t pay any attorney fees out of your pocket. Instead, the lawyer receives a pre-agreed-upon percentage of the final settlement or court award. If they don’t win the case for you, you don’t owe them a fee for their time. This arrangement aligns our goals directly with yours. It gives your legal team a powerful incentive to fight for the maximum compensation possible for your injuries, whether they stem from a car accident or another type of incident covered in our practice areas.

What About Other Costs and Expenses?

While the contingency fee covers your lawyer’s work, every legal case comes with its own set of expenses. These are the direct costs of moving your case forward, such as court filing fees, the cost of obtaining your medical records, or fees for expert witnesses who might need to testify. In most personal injury cases, the law firm will cover these costs as they arise. Then, once your case is resolved, these expenses are typically reimbursed to the firm from the settlement or award. While this might sound like another thing to worry about, having a skilled attorney often leads to a much higher settlement that more than covers these costs and secures your financial future.

Making Sense of the Fee Agreement

Before you officially hire an attorney, you’ll review and sign a fee agreement. This document is your roadmap, and it’s crucial to understand every part of it. A transparent agreement will clearly state the contingency fee percentage and explain exactly how case expenses are handled. For example, it will specify whether expenses are deducted before or after the attorney’s percentage is calculated. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. A trustworthy lawyer will take the time to walk you through the agreement and ensure you feel completely comfortable. This commitment to a client-centered approach is the foundation of a strong attorney-client relationship, so make sure you find a lawyer who prioritizes clear communication from day one.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Look at the Claim Process

Thinking about a personal injury claim can feel overwhelming, but the process is more straightforward than you might think. While every situation is unique, most cases follow a similar path from your first meeting with an attorney to the final resolution. Knowing these steps can help demystify the journey and give you a clear picture of what lies ahead. Here’s a look at the typical stages of a personal injury claim.

Step 1: Your Initial Consultation

This first meeting is a crucial starting point. It’s a conversation where you share the details of your accident and injuries, and the attorney assesses the strength of your case. We’ll discuss who might be responsible and whether you have a solid claim to pursue. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and decide if you feel comfortable working with the attorney. To make the most of this meeting, bring any documents you have, like police reports or medical bills. The goal is to leave with a clear understanding of your legal options. You can schedule a consultation to get this process started.

Step 2: Filing the Official Claim

Once you and your attorney decide to move forward, the next step is to make it official. Your lawyer will prepare and file the necessary legal documents to start your personal injury claim. This formally notifies the at-fault party (and their insurance company) that you are seeking compensation for your damages. The legal paperwork and procedures can be complex, which is why having an experienced attorney is so important. They handle the deadlines and requirements, ensuring everything is filed correctly while you focus on your recovery. This step turns your situation into a formal legal recourse for the harm you’ve suffered.

Step 3: Gathering Evidence (Discovery)

This phase, known as discovery, is all about building your case. Your attorney will work to gather all the evidence needed to prove what happened and how it has affected your life. This includes collecting police reports, medical records, witness statements, and proof of lost wages. Both sides formally exchange information during discovery, which can involve written questions and requests for documents. This stage is fundamental to establishing the facts and demonstrating the full extent of your injuries and losses. A strong case is built on strong evidence, and your lawyer will manage this entire process.

Step 4: Negotiating a Settlement

The vast majority of personal injury cases are resolved before ever reaching a courtroom. During this stage, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. A settlement is an agreement where the other party pays you an agreed-upon amount of money to resolve the claim. Your attorney will present the evidence gathered during discovery to argue for compensation that covers your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. They will handle all the communication and advise you on any offers you receive, but the final decision to accept a settlement is always yours. This negotiation can happen at any point in the personal injury lawsuit timeline.

Step 5: Preparing for Trial (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your case may need to go to trial. While this is less common, it’s essential to have an attorney who is ready and able to represent you in court. Preparation for trial involves organizing evidence, preparing witnesses, and developing a clear legal strategy to present to a judge or jury. Your lawyer will argue your case, present the facts, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Having a trial-ready attorney like Chad G. Mann ensures that you are prepared for every possibility and that the other side knows you are serious about getting a just outcome.

What Are the Possible Outcomes for My Case?

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an injury, it’s natural to wonder what the road ahead looks like. Every personal injury case is different, but they generally follow one of two main paths toward a resolution. The first and most common outcome is a settlement, where we negotiate a fair agreement outside of court. The second is a trial verdict, where a judge or jury makes the final decision. Our goal is always to find the path that best serves your interests and secures the compensation you need to move forward. We’ll work closely with you to determine the right strategy for your specific situation, whether that involves skillful negotiation or powerful representation in the courtroom.

Reaching a Settlement

Most personal injury cases end in a settlement. This is a formal agreement where the at-fault party’s insurance company agrees to pay you a specific amount of money to cover your damages. In exchange, you agree to end your legal claim against them. Many cases settle out of court, which can save a lot of time, stress, and legal expenses. A settlement can be reached at almost any point in the process—sometimes even before a lawsuit is officially filed. As your attorney, my role is to handle all the negotiations for you, making sure any offer you receive is fair and fully covers your losses from the accident.

Receiving a Trial Verdict

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, taking your case to trial may be the best or only option. When a case goes to trial, your lawyer presents your story and evidence to a judge or jury, who will then determine the outcome. They decide if the other party is legally responsible for your injuries and, if so, how much compensation you should receive. While a trial can feel intimidating, sometimes it’s the necessary step to get justice. A successful trial verdict depends on presenting strong, clear evidence to win your personal injury suit, which is why thorough investigation and preparation are so important from the very beginning.

What Determines Your Case’s Value?

One of the first questions people ask is, “How much is my case worth?” There’s no simple formula, as the value depends on many unique factors. The amount of money you can recover is based on things like the severity of your injuries, the total of your medical bills and lost wages, and how the injury has impacted your daily life. The law recognizes different types of damages, including tangible costs like medical treatment and lost income, as well as intangible losses like pain and suffering. A key part of my job is to carefully document all of your losses—both present and future—to build a strong case for the full compensation you deserve.

Proving Your Case: Deadlines and Key Elements

Winning a personal injury case comes down to more than just telling your side of the story. It requires building a strong, logical argument backed by solid evidence and presented according to strict legal rules. This means meeting critical deadlines, proving that the other party was legally at fault, and gathering the right information to support your claim. Understanding these key components is the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve. An experienced lawyer handles these details so you can focus on your recovery.

Don’t Miss the Filing Deadline (Statute of Limitations)

In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit. This time limit is called the statute of limitations. While five years might sound like a long time, it can pass surprisingly quickly, especially when you’re dealing with medical treatments and recovery. It’s crucial to act fast because building a strong case takes time. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories can fade, and important documents can get lost. Some cases, particularly those involving government entities, may have much shorter deadlines. Contacting a lawyer early ensures you protect your right to file a claim before the window closes.

The Four Things You Need to Prove Negligence

To win a personal injury case, you and your lawyer must prove that the other party was negligent. This isn’t just a feeling; it’s a legal standard with four specific elements. You have to establish all four to have a valid claim.

Duty: The other person had a legal responsibility to act with a certain level of care. For example, every driver has a duty to obey traffic laws and pay attention to the road.
Breach: They failed to meet that duty. A driver who runs a red light or texts while driving has breached their duty of care.
Causation: Their failure directly caused your injuries. You must show that the accident wouldn’t have happened—and you wouldn’t have been hurt—if not for their actions.
Damages: You suffered actual losses as a result. This includes things like medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.

The Kinds of Evidence That Strengthen Your Claim

A successful claim is built on a foundation of strong evidence. The more proof you have, the harder it is for the insurance company to deny or downplay your injuries. Your lawyer will help you gather and organize everything, but it’s helpful to know what to look for. Key pieces of evidence often include police reports, photos and videos of the accident scene and your injuries, and contact information for any witnesses. Your medical records are also vital, as they create an official timeline of your injuries and treatment. Keep a file of all related bills, receipts, and pay stubs to document your financial losses. You can even keep a personal journal detailing your pain levels and how the injury impacts your daily life.

How Expert Witnesses Can Help Your Case

Sometimes, proving your case requires specialized knowledge that goes beyond what the average person knows. This is where expert witnesses come in. These are professionals who can analyze the facts of your case and provide an expert opinion to help a judge or jury understand complex issues. For example, an accident reconstructionist can use physics to show how a collision occurred and who was at fault. A medical expert can explain the severity of your injuries and testify about the future medical care you’ll need. Having a credible expert explain the details of your situation can be incredibly persuasive and often makes a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Personal Injury Case

After an accident, your world can feel turned upside down. In the middle of the stress and confusion, it’s easy to make a misstep that could affect your ability to get fair compensation. Knowing what pitfalls to avoid is just as crucial as knowing what steps to take. Protecting your rights starts with being aware of these common mistakes that can unfortunately weaken a personal injury claim.

Waiting to See a Doctor

Your health and well-being should always be your top priority after an accident. Even if you feel fine, some serious injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Seeking prompt medical attention is not just for your health; it’s also critical for your legal claim. When you wait, an insurance company can argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or aren’t as severe as you claim. A doctor’s visit creates an official record that documents your injuries and directly links them to the incident. This medical evidence becomes the foundation of your case, establishing the costs you’ve incurred and the care you need.

Speaking to the Insurance Adjuster Alone

Soon after an accident, you’ll likely get a call from the other party’s insurance adjuster. It’s important to remember that their goal is to protect their company’s bottom line by paying out as little as possible. Adjusters are trained negotiators who may try to get you to make a recorded statement, hoping you’ll say something that minimizes your injuries or suggests you were at fault. Even a simple “I’m fine” can be used against you later. You are not obligated to give them a statement. It’s best to politely decline and direct all communications to your attorney, who can handle these conversations and protect your interests across all practice areas.

Taking the First Lowball Offer

Insurance companies often extend a quick settlement offer, hoping you’ll take it before you understand the full extent of your damages. This initial offer can seem tempting, especially when medical bills are starting to arrive. However, it’s almost always far less than what your claim is actually worth. Accepting it means you forfeit your right to seek any further compensation for this incident. Before you agree to anything, it’s wise to have an experienced attorney evaluate your case. A lawyer can help you understand the true value of your claim and will fight to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve. Don’t let pressure tactics rush you into an unfair decision.

Forgetting About Future Costs

A fair settlement should cover much more than just your current medical bills and the time you’ve missed from work. It must also account for the long-term impact of your injuries. This includes future medical treatments, ongoing physical therapy, prescription costs, and potential loss of future earning capacity. It also includes non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more if your condition worsens or you need unexpected surgery down the road. An attorney can help calculate the full value of your claim, ensuring your settlement provides for your future needs, not just your immediate ones.

Finding the Right Legal Partner in Southwest Missouri

After an injury, choosing a lawyer can feel like another major hurdle. You’re not just looking for someone with a law degree; you’re searching for a trusted partner who will stand by you through a difficult time. The right attorney for you will have a deep understanding of Missouri law, a strong track record, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. It’s about finding a firm that sees you as a person, not just a case number, and has the local knowledge to effectively handle your claim in Southwest Missouri.

When you’re evaluating your options, consider both the lawyer’s professional qualifications and their personal approach. Do they have experience with cases like yours? Do they communicate clearly and make you feel heard? A good personal injury lawyer combines legal skill with compassion, ensuring you have a dedicated advocate in your corner. This partnership is crucial for getting through the legal system with confidence and securing the justice you deserve. Finding an attorney who values building long-term client relationships is a sign that they prioritize trust and respect. At The Law Office of Chad G. Mann, we focus on building that trust from our very first conversation, because we know that a strong relationship is the foundation for a successful outcome.

Why Choose The Law Office of Chad G. Mann?

When you’re looking for a lawyer, experience is non-negotiable. You need someone who has handled personal injury cases similar to yours and has a history of success. A reputable attorney should be able to point to a track record that demonstrates their ability to get results, whether that’s negotiating a fair settlement or fighting for a verdict in court. This background shows they have the skills and knowledge to manage the complexities of your claim.

At The Law Office of Chad G. Mann, we have dedicated years to representing clients across a range of practice areas, from automobile accidents to premises liability. We believe that integrity and dedicated service are the foundations of a strong attorney-client relationship. Our goal is to provide the effective legal representation you need while treating you with the respect and attention you deserve.

The Importance of a Client-Centered Approach

Choosing a lawyer is a significant decision that can directly impact the outcome of your case. A client-centered approach means your attorney acts as your trusted advisor, putting your best interests first at every stage. This involves more than just legal strategy; it’s about clear communication, transparency, and genuine advocacy. Your lawyer should take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident in the path forward.

This philosophy is at the core of how we operate. We believe that effective representation starts with listening. As your legal partner, my commitment is to help you understand your rights and options so you can make informed decisions. We handle the legal complexities, from investigating the details to negotiating with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will it cost me to hire a personal injury lawyer? This is one of the most common worries, but you don’t need to pay anything upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means our payment is a percentage of the money we successfully recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us no attorney fees. This approach ensures that our goals are perfectly aligned with yours: to get you the best possible outcome.

How long will my personal injury case take? There isn’t a single answer to this question, as every case is unique. The timeline can depend on the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the accident, and how willing the insurance company is to negotiate fairly. While some straightforward cases might resolve in a few months, more complex ones can take longer. The priority is always to secure a just result that covers all your needs, not to rush to a quick and inadequate conclusion.

What if I was partly at fault for the accident? Even if you believe you might share some of the blame, you should still speak with an attorney. Missouri follows a “pure comparative fault” rule. This means you can still recover damages, but your final award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. An experienced lawyer can help protect you from being assigned an unfair amount of blame.

The other driver’s insurance company called me. What should I do? It’s best to be very careful in this situation. You can be polite, but you are not required to give them a recorded statement or discuss the details of the accident or your injuries. Their goal is to find information that could weaken your claim. The safest thing to do is simply tell the adjuster that you will have your attorney contact them, and then end the conversation.

Will I have to go to court for my personal injury claim? Most people are relieved to hear that the vast majority of personal injury cases are settled out of court through negotiation. A settlement is often the most efficient way to resolve a claim. However, if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, going to trial becomes a necessary step. Having an attorney who is fully prepared to fight for you in a courtroom is a powerful advantage that often convinces the other side to negotiate reasonably.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You