It’s traumatic to be injured in an accident. In an instant, everything has changed. Someone else will have to pick up the kids after school, and it won’t be possible to go to work tomorrow. In some cases, it may never be possible to work again. When the accident was caused by another person, you have the legal right to compensation.
It’s important to hire the best attorney for your case, just as you would want the best surgeon if an operation was needed. Following are a few tips on personal injury cases.
Experience Matters
It’s important to find an attorney who has successfully handled similar personal injury cases in the past. Lawyers tend to focus their practices in certain areas of the law, such as personal injury, criminal defense, family law or business cases, although they often handle other types of cases. An attorney who has spent years in one area of the law will be more knowledgeable than someone who only occasionally deals with that type of case. Don’t be afraid to ask an attorney about the outcomes of similar cases.
Don’t Hire an Ambulance Chaser
An ambulance chaser is a lawyer who contacts an accident victim as soon as possible after an accident, and is frowned upon or even illegal in many states. Take the time to do your research before hiring a lawyer. Check with family, friends and coworkers, and contact the local bar association. You may want to have an initial consultation with two or three attorneys before deciding.
Most Cases Don’t Go to Trial
Most personal injury cases settle before going to trial, but if there were serious injuries and a substantial amount of compensation is involved, it will probably take a while. In certain cases, it may be possible to settle with the insurance company without even filing a lawsuit.
It’s possible to receive compensation for:
•Medical bills and physical therapy, present and future
•Damage to property (often a vehicle)
•Lost wages, which can include future wages if it’s not possible to return to work
•Pain and suffering
Wegmann Law Firm has been offering a complete range of legal services in Jefferson County, MO since 1947. At Wegmann Law Firm, attorneys Mark T. Bishop and James M. Kreitler handle personal injury cases. Visit the website to schedule a consultation to review your case.
