After you are injured in an accident, you might feel overwhelmed. You're dealing with pain, medical bills, missed work, and stress. Filing an injury claim may only add to your burden, especially if the insurance company pushes back.
That's where a personal injury lawyer can help. A good lawyer does more than just file paperwork. They protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve after your accident.
Here are six key ways a lawyer can help with your injury claim.
1. Investigating Your Accident
Right after your accident, evidence can disappear quickly. A lawyer knows how to act fast and what type of evidence to look for.
They may:
- Visit the scene of the crash and take photos
- Work with an accident reconstruction specialist and other experts when needed
- Request traffic camera and surveillance footage, which may only be available for days or weeks
- Interview witnesses
- Get a copy of the police report
- Collect your medical records
All of this helps build a strong case. Without this evidence, the insurance company might try to blame you or deny your claim.
2. Calculating the True Value of Your Claim
Injury claims can vary widely in value depending on the location, type of injury or accident, and other facts of the case.
The factors your lawyer will consider in determining the value of your case could include:
- The severity of your injuries
- Current and future medical needs
- Effect on your future earning potential
- Property damage, including a vehicle’s diminished value, after a crash
- Your percentage of the blame for the accident
Without a lawyer, you may not know what your case is really worth. That means you might accept a lowball offer that doesn’t even cover your losses.
3. Dealing with the Insurance Company
Insurance adjusters are trained to save their company money. They might seem friendly, but they’re not on your side. The insurance adjuster may use tactics to undervalue your claim, shift blame, or deny your claim outright to try to get you to settle quickly.
A lawyer handles all communication with the insurer. That means fewer chances to say something that might hurt your case. It also means less stress for you.
4. Negotiating a Fair Settlement
Most injury claims settle out of court, but getting a fair deal may require effort and skill.
A lawyer can present your case clearly and push back against unfair offers. They will use evidence to support your claim, including expert opinions when needed.
Without a lawyer, the insurance company may not take you as seriously. They may pressure you to accept an offer quickly and refuse to make a reasonable offer.
5. Filing a Lawsuit if Needed
Sometimes, a settlement just isn’t possible.
If your lawyer determines a lawsuit is necessary, they will:
- Prepare you for court
- File motions to submit and request evidence
- Gather more evidence during discovery
- Continue to negotiate for a fair offer
- Question witnesses under oath (depositions)
- Present your case to a jury
Even if you never go to trial, having a lawyer who’s ready to fight can make the other side more willing to settle.
6. Giving You Peace of Mind
Injury claims can take months or even years. That’s a long time to deal with paperwork, deadlines, and legal rules.
A lawyer helps you avoid costly mistakes and keeps your case on track. You get to focus on healing instead of fighting a legal battle. They also answer your questions and keep you informed. That way, you’re never in the dark about what’s happening with your case.
Do You Really Need a Lawyer?
Some people try to handle their claim on their own. Having a lawyer can make a big difference if you were seriously hurt and it wasn’t your fault.
Personal injury lawyers generally don’t charge anything unless they win your case. Their contingency fee is taken out of your settlement. You can benefit from the legal representation you need to recover fair compensation without an upfront deposit.
Gene Riddle is the founder & managing partner of Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers, a personal injury law firm that provides legal representation for the injured in North Carolina, with over 190 years of combined legal experience. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
