Should You Hire A Personal Injury Lawyer?

After a serious accident, many people wonder if they should hire a personal injury lawyer. Some people will have very strong personal reasons one way or the other, while others are just not sure whether or not they should hire an attorney. Some of the concerns that an accident victim might have are listed below.

I don’t want to go to court. Many people feel uncomfortable at the idea of going to court. Most personal injury cases settle before the case goes before a judge and jury, but some cases do go to trial. The insurance company may offer a last minute settlement at any time before or even during the trial.

I can get the money I need sooner if I accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company. That is true. Insurance companies are motivated to settle for as little as possible and protect their bottom line. Settlement offers do not start high and get lower as time goes on. The settlement offer is always for the lowest amount that the insurance company hopes will be accepted.

I’ve never hired a personal injury lawyer. Most personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation to discuss the case. Make a list of questions and talk to several attorneys.

 

Some of the questions that could be asked are:

How are you paid? Most injury lawyers accept a percentage of the settlement if they win but receive nothing if they lose. Ask how expenses are handled.

Who would be your contact person as the case proceeds?

Will it be OK to call the office for updates?

What has been your track record with this type of case? For example, if the case involves a botched operation, does the attorney handle many medical malpractice cases?

Who will be investigating the facts of the case?

How long do you think it will take? An experienced injury lawyer cannot make a guarantee, but will be able to make an estimate based on past cases.

The Illinois clients of the Lake Cook Law Group benefit from their combined 27 years of litigation experience. These lake county attorneys offer a free initial consultation to discuss your concerns, the case and what they will be able to do for you. Visit their website to learn more about the firm and schedule a consultation.