What is Personal Injury?
When a person is injured due to the negligence of another, the injured person can file a claim against the other party for their damages. A claim may include loss or damage to property; bodily injury; past and future wage loss; and past, present, and future pain and suffering. This type of claim is often called a personal injury claim. Personal injuries most often come from automobile accidents, but there are other kinds of personal injury actions.
Why Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
In most cases, when you file a claim for personal injury, it is filed with an insurance company. Most often, this will be an auto insurance company. Dealing with insurance companies can be intimidating and confusing, especially when you are suffering from injuries at the same time.
Often, an insurance adjuster will contact you and offer you a settlement very soon after your accident, while you are still receiving treatment for your injuries. This offer is almost always a bad idea to accept. Their job is not to help you—it is to look after the insurance company's bottom line. They will offer the least amount of money possible while making it sound like a good deal.
It is best to find a personal injury attorney soon after your accident. They will take over your claim, file the paperwork, and negotiate with the insurance companies to get you the highest settlement possible.
Sometimes, insurance companies won't offer an acceptable settlement. In these cases, the attorney can help you file suit, and represent you in any subsequent court proceedings.
Common Questions About Personal Injury Lawsuits
Have been in an accident? We can help.
Randy L. Jameson has decades of experience in personal injury law. Ask him anything here or better yet schedule a free consultation!