An injury lawyer helps accident victims pursue financial compensation for injuries caused by someone else’s actions or inaction. They help clients understand the laws that apply to their case and walk them through the complex legal procedures, medical and insurance jargon, and filing requirements of personal injury lawyer cases. Injury lawyers are also familiar with the tactics employed by insurance companies to reduce or deny claims.
Injury attorneys begin by meeting with their clients and discussing the facts of the case. Then, they explain the legal strategies available to pursue financial compensation. Clients then choose a strategy and work with the lawyer to execute that strategy. This may involve negotiating with the insurance company or taking the matter to court.
When it comes to pursuing a claim, each case is unique and requires extensive investigation. The lawyer’s team will gather evidence such as photos of the accident scene, witness testimony, and expert opinions. In some cases, an attorney may even employ a forensics expert to conduct tests and reconstructions of the accident to help prove liability or damage.
Once the evidence is gathered, the lawyer will negotiate with the insurer to reach a fair settlement for the victim. This involves the attorney reviewing the claimant’s losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and future expenses related to their injury. Then, the attorney will argue to the insurer that their client is entitled to a certain amount of money to cover those losses.
If the insurance company is unwilling to agree to a reasonable settlement, the lawyer will file a lawsuit against the at-fault party or entity. This may include a complaint that outlines the way the accident occurred and that it was due to the defendant’s negligence. It may also include exhibits such as photographs of the injury, medical invoices, and pay stubs that show loss of income.
When the case is filed, the lawyer will send a letter of representation to parties who may have a stake in the outcome of the case. This may include other drivers involved in the accident, employers of workers injured on the job, manufacturers of defective products, and others.
During the trial, the lawyer will present the plaintiff’s case to a jury of peers. If the jury finds in favor of the plaintiff, they will award monetary damages to the victim for their losses and injuries. This may include payment for past and future losses, costs for rehabilitation, and even punitive damages to punish egregious behavior.