Did you know around 12,480 people each year are hospitalized because of dog bite injuries?
Whether bitten by a dog, injured in a vehicle collision, hurt in a slip or fall, or banged up in some other way, you should consult a personal injury lawyer for the assistance you need. Going it alone is the sort of foolhardy strategy to pursue if you wish to jeopardize your odds of success.
The personal injury process is complex. And there are strict timelines in place. So, unless you’re an expert in that area of the law, you might ruin your chances of success by missing deadlines or failing to submit the right documents. Hiring a personal injury lawyer will take a load off your shoulders since you’ll have a legal professional in your corner.
Here are seven signs you need a personal injury lawyer to help with your personal injury claim.
1. Serious or Lasting Injuries
One sign you must call a personal injury lawyer is if you suffer an injury. While a severe injury justifies calling a lawyer, don’t assume you don’t need to do so if you initially don’t feel seriously injured. Some injuries worsen over time and may be barely noticeable right after the accident.
You’ll need compensation to pay for whatever medical assistance you require — and that’s when a personal injury lawyer can step in and help.
2. Insurance Denial
Another reason to call a personal injury lawyer is if an insurer denies your claim or refuses to address a lowball compensation offer. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company and try to get them to make a fair offer that takes into account your healthcare needs, pain and suffering, lost salary, and more.
If the insurer refuses to negotiate in good faith, your lawyer can take your claim to court.
3. Permanent or Disabling Injuries
Facing permanent or catastrophic injuries that will result in long-term or life-long consequences is another reason to hire a personal injury lawyer. The legal professional will research to see how much money you will need and push to get the insurance company to make a fair offer.
4. Unclear Liability
Sometimes an insurer will express doubt as to liability. It’s not bound by the police report finding, although it will review and assess that report. But if multiple parties were involved in an incident leading to a personal injury, a personal injury lawyer can help establish liability and build a solid case.
5. Financial Hardship from Medical Bills
You’ll want a personal injury lawyer in your corner if you’re struggling to keep up with medical bills for treatments related to your personal injury. A lawyer can help get compensation for current and future bills. It might take the determined efforts of a legal professional in your corner to get the insurer to act.
6. Insurance Delays or Bad Faith
Another sign it’s time to call a personal injury lawyer is if the insurer is dragging its feet. If you try to work with an insurance company without the help of a legal professional, you might be in for a long wait. However, a lawyer specializing in personal injury law will know how to deal with unresponsive insurers and get them to behave professionally.
7. Complex Legal or Medical Issues
Some personal injury cases are more difficult than others. If your case is complex, a personal injury lawyer can help. They might retain experts who can detail the medical issues you face, the extent of your injuries, and other things that help get you the required assistance.
When you need a personal injury lawyer, it’s best to retain one as soon as possible. You don’t want to roll the dice with so much at stake. The right lawyer in your corner will increase your odds of a successful outcome.