If you were hurt in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be wondering “do I need a lawyer for a personal injury case?” Although there is no requirement that you hire a lawyer to represent you, there are numerous advantages to having representation — from protecting your legal rights to maximizing your financial compensation. By retaining a lawyer for your claim, you are putting yourself in the best possible position to achieve a positive outcome in your lawsuit.
Here are five crucial reasons to have a lawyer for your personal injury case:
1. A Personal Injury Lawyer Has Deep Legal Knowledge
Personal injury law is often complex — and navigating the legal process can be challenging without an experienced lawyer to guide you. Lawyers who focus their practice in personal injury law have a deep understanding of the nuances of these types of cases and the procedures involved with litigating them in the courtroom. They can also ensure pleadings and motions are filed correctly, and you do not miss the statute of limitations in your claim.
2. A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Deal with the Insurance Company
Dealing with the defendant’s insurance company can be difficult. Insurance adjusters are trained in using certain tactics. They may try to get you to admit fault or accept a settlement for much less than the compensation to which you’re entitled. While it is an insurance adjuster’s job to minimize your payout or find a reason to deny your claim, a personal injury lawyer will know the strategies the insurance company will use — and can vigorously negotiate on your behalf.
3. A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Maximize Your Compensation
A good personal injury lawyer understands what it takes to secure the maximum compensation you deserve in your case. They will know how to value your injuries, assess your damages, and establish the defendant’s liability. In addition, a lawyer with deep knowledge of personal injury law can collect the evidence needed to establish liability and use expert witnesses to strengthen your position. Importantly, since personal injury lawyers work on contingency, you do not pay any legal fees upfront — you would only be responsible for paying legal fees once your lawyer prevails in your case.
4. A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Avoid Pitfalls
One of the most important reasons to have a lawyer for a personal injury case is that they can help you avoid potential pitfalls that could negatively impact your claim. From failing to continue your medical treatment to inadvertently saying the wrong thing to the insurance adjuster, there are many mistakes that can be made in a personal injury lawsuit. Your lawyer can communicate directly with the insurance company, help you gather documentation for your claim, and ensure you comply with the applicable deadlines to maximize your monetary recovery.
5. A Personal Injury Lawyer Will Have Negotiation and Litigation Experience
Not every personal injury case is settled in the courtroom. An experienced personal injury attorney will know whether a better result can be achieved through negotiations or at trial. Not only is a good personal injury lawyer an adept litigator, but they will also be a skillful negotiator. While they can negotiate with the insurance company to obtain the highest amount of monetary recovery available, they can also fight for your rights in the courtroom if the insurance company will not offer a fair settlement.
Contact an Experienced New York Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s vital to have a diligent personal injury lawyer who can safeguard your rights and work to achieve a positive result in your case. With a commitment to achieving the best possible results for each client, The Edelsteins, Faegenburg & Brown, LLP regularly obtains substantial settlements and jury verdicts. Located in Manhattan, our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout New York City since 1937. Call to schedule a free consultation at (212) 425-1999 today.