Suffering a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence can be a physically, emotionally, and financially distressing experience. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, seeking compensation for your damages is a logical step to take. While you might be concerned about the costs associated with hiring an attorney, the truth is that having a skilled legal professional by your side can significantly increase your chances of obtaining a higher settlement. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why hiring an attorney for your personal injury claim is a wise choice, even considering the fact that they take a percentage of the settlement.
Navigating the intricacies of personal injury law requires in-depth knowledge and expertise. Attorneys specializing in personal injury claims possess a deep understanding of the legal processes, statutes of limitations, and how to build a strong case. According to a study published by the American Bar Association, claimants who sought legal representation were more likely to receive favorable outcomes and higher compensation compared to those who pursued claims without legal assistance.
Determining the value of your personal injury claim is a complex task that goes beyond calculating medical bills and lost wages. An experienced attorney takes into account both the tangible and intangible aspects of your damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and potential future medical expenses. This comprehensive approach to valuation can ensure that you receive a settlement that truly reflects the extent of your losses.
Insurance companies are skilled at minimizing their payouts. They often try to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible, hoping that claimants will accept inadequate offers due to their financial strain. However, having a reputable attorney by your side changes the game. Lawyers are skilled negotiators who understand the tactics used by insurance adjusters. They can counter lowball offers and present a compelling case that emphasizes the severity of your injuries and the liable party’s responsibility.
One of the most compelling reasons to hire an attorney is the potential threat of trial. Insurance companies know that if a claim goes to court, they could end up paying significantly more than they would in an out-of-court settlement. A study conducted by the Insurance Research Council found that claimants who hired attorneys received settlements that were, on average, three and a half times larger than those without representation. Insurance companies are more likely to offer a fair settlement when faced with the possibility of a trial where they may have to pay even more.
Dealing with a personal injury claim can be time-consuming and emotionally draining. Juggling legal matters, paperwork, and negotiations while trying to recover from your injuries can be overwhelming. Hiring an attorney allows you to focus on your physical and emotional well-being, knowing that a legal professional is handling the complexities of your case.
One of the primary concerns people have about hiring an attorney is the cost. However, most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t pay any upfront fees. Instead, your attorney only gets paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage of the settlement amount. This arrangement ensures that you can access quality legal representation without adding financial stress to an already challenging situation.
While it’s true that attorneys take a percentage of the settlement, the increase in compensation they can secure often outweighs their fees. Let’s consider an example: if you were to settle for $50,000 without an attorney, you might receive the full amount but miss out on crucial negotiations that could have led to a $100,000 settlement with legal representation, even after the attorney’s 33% fee. In this scenario, you would still end up with $67,000 – $17,000 more than you would have received without an attorney.
Hiring an attorney for your personal injury claim is a strategic move that can lead to a higher settlement, even after factoring in their fees. With their legal expertise, negotiation skills, and ability to leverage the threat of trial, attorneys can secure compensation that accurately reflects the extent of your damages. The contingency fee arrangement also ensures that pursuing your rightful compensation is risk-free and won’t add financial burden to your recovery.
When it comes to personal injury claims, it’s not just about winning – it’s about winning big. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contacting Shapiro | Delgado | Hofmann’s experienced personal injury lawyers in Sarasota and Bradenton can make a significant difference in your journey to obtain the compensation you deserve.
