Whenever you are in an accident, the last thing you have in mind is probably to call a lawyer. Of course, you want to secure your safety and tend to yourself first. After that, you probably feel a bit lost on what to do. So, when should you call your lawyer? Read on and know more.
Accidents can happen everywhere at any given time. In San Francisco alone, over 13,000 accidents due to distracted driving occurred last year (2021) based on the preliminary data collected by the State-Wide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Not only that, but many types of accidents can cause you injuries and, if unfortunate, could result in death. Before any horrible things could happen (which we hope would never do) it’s best that you know what to do.
Timing it Right: When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
It is best to call a personal attorney right away if you are injured in a car accident or if you are injured due to the negligence of someone else. An expert that can provide you with the best option to decide on how to proceed would make an impact on your claim for just compensation.
In addition, having a personal injury attorney in time could prevent the loss of critical information such as evidence and statements from witnesses before they could forget or be out of reach. Increasing the chance of a smooth and efficient claim for your compensation.
Remember that there is also a statute of limitation to file a claim for personal injury. That means that if you miss the deadline, you will not be able to receive the compensation. You might not be able to handle all the legal documents and processes alone, especially when you are badly injured. That’s why having a personal injury attorney is important.
Some examples where you need an immediate attorney are as follows:
- Car accidents like If you are hit by a car, truck, or any motor vehicle. Also includes collisions and other vehicle-related accidents.
- Bicycles and pedestrian-related accidents
- Workplace accidents like equipment tool malfunctions, construction site accidents, maritime, and other work-related accidents that lead to injuries
- Accidents due to negligence of someone that results in injuries, e.g., dog bites, defective structures, medicinal malpractice, etc.
The information and statements gathered by the police, as well as the evidence in the incidents, are crucial, and you need someone to handle that matters. After receiving the police report is also the best time to call a personal attorney.
How does a personal attorney help you?
Personal Injury Attorneys or Lawyers are types of Litigators who provide legal advice and representation to clients who have sustained a physical or psychological injury, as well as financial loss, after falling victim to the carelessness or negligence of an individual or organization.
Not only that an attorney could evaluate the damage and compensation, but an expert personal injury attorney could also guide you through the whole process. You might be aware that all your statements can either help or hurt you in your claim. Even one mistake in your statements can be used against you making your claims more complicated and frustrating.
Aside from that, an attorney could speak or negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. It is well-known that most insurance companies would attempt to minimize your monetary damages to settle your claims. Some companies might even bully or ignore you, so you need someone that knows how to handle the negotiation. A personal injury attorney walks through with you, from collecting necessary documents to filing up until you get the just compensation that you deserve.
Benefits of having a personal injury attorney on your behalf
- Proper evaluation of damage amount compensation
- Helps you get the proper medical treatment
- Ensuring the documents, evidence, and statements
- Guidance and decision making
- Negotiating with the insurance company
- Faster process to claim your compensation
- Peace of mind
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Personal Injury Attorney cost?
The average hourly rate for a lawyer in California is between $100 – $400, depending on the expertise and some other factors. It may also vary in some places. However, if you choose the “contingency fee” option, then a usual fee of 33.3% for the attorney in the final settlement compensation if you win.
But if unfortunate that you lose, then you pay no fees or charge to the attorney. This type of payment plan is used to minimize the client’s financial risk in hiring an attorney to represent them. But in some cases, the attorney covers some costs and expenses. The legal fees could also go up depending on the agreement.
How much compensation am I entitled to after an accident?
There are two types of damage that California Law allows compensation. The general damage and the special damage. General damage refers to the physical and psychological damage caused by an accident or the negligence of someone. This includes pain, suffering, trauma, the ability to make a living, and the quality of life after the accident or the act of negligence.
On the other hand, the special damage belongs to the costs of medical expenses or any healthcare-related fees, damage to your property like vehicles, and loss of wages. So far, there is no specific formula to calculate the final amount of compensation, but it will be greatly related to the damage caused to help the claimants to be “whole” again after the accident.
Do I need to go to court to file a personal injury claim?
A court appearance is not necessary. Usually, both parties settle the compensations outside the court. But in some instances, the negligent or the insurance company offers to settle an unacceptable compensation to the plaintiff, which complicates the situation.
That’s a time you need a personal injury attorney to negotiate on your behalf. So, in general, having a personal attorney to represent you on your behalf has never been a bad idea. If you’re looking for a top-rated personal attorney, you may click here to get a free consultation.
Need Legal Assistance? Talk to Us!
Need help in dealing with the complex personal injury accident claim process? If you do, trust our team of San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers today!
Here at The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc. we go above and beyond as a highly respected personal injury law firm in California. Let us handle all your concerns and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online, or call (415) 851-6486 in San Francisco or (415) 851-6486 in the North Bay. The consultation is free!
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