4 Reasons to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

If you have been injured as the result of someone else's carelessness or negligence, you may have a potential personal injury claim for which you can seek appropriate compensation. While some people attempt to file a claim themselves, and subsequently represent themselves in court, hiring a knowledgeable and experienced personal injury attorney is often a far more preferable course of action. Keep reading for just four of the most important reasons hiring a personal injury lawyer can be a great decision.

Contingency Fees

Many people assume right away that they cannot afford to have a lawyer represent them. The reality, however, is that most personal injury lawyers work on the basis of what is called contingency fees. This means that if your case does not reach a settlement, or is not judged in your favor, you won't owe a cent in legal fees. On the other hand, if your case is settled or decided favorably, then all fees are taken out of your settlement; you won't owe any money upfront. 

Time Saved

While it's possible you might be capable of representing yourself under normal circumstances, even simple tasks become frustrating after a major injury. When pursuing compensation for your injury, you will likely be forced to communicate with insurance adjusters, collect and compile medical records, contact any witnesses who are willing to provide testimony, and much more. All of these things are best handled by an experienced attorney, allowing you to use your time to focus on recovery.

Reaching a Resolution

It's a common misconception that all personal injury claims go to court. In fact, the ones that do only represent a small fraction of cases. Instead, your claim will most likely be settled out of court. Without an attorney to guide you through legal processes, such as arbitration or mediation which are often as complicated as the trials are in their own right, you may not be able to maximize the compensation you feel is rightfully due. 

Going to Trial

In cases that do go to trial, people who decide to represent themselves are at a severe disadvantage. They may not even be familiar with the basic processes involved, much less how to present a case effectively. Conversely, the familiarity and experience an attorney has working with judges, juries, and other lawyers only means that your likelihood of a favorable decision at the end of the trial is increased. 

Keep these tips in mind when looking for a personal injury lawyer near you.