Go through hundreds of online articles on personal injury reports, and you’ll discover that the U.S. is fatigued with millions of personal injury claims worth millions. From work accidents to assault and battery, traffic collisions to dog bites – the cases can show that there’s no hope for the victims of such accidents. It may seem that victims are only burdened with stacked medical bills that they struggle to pay, and the pain refuses to go away. But there’s light at the end of the tunnel!
When to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer: Key Signs to Know
A personal injury attorney can assist the victims in racking up the deserved compensation. However, victims must not delay in contacting the lawyer. Delays can make you lose the compensation you deserve. When is the appropriate time to call? The short answer: the sooner, the better. But let’s break it down further.
1. Right After the Accident—Gathering Evidence Matters
The minutes after an accident are hectic. But if you can, gather as much evidence as possible. Evidence gathering can help you win your case. Here’s what to do:
- Photograph the scene, your injuries, and any damaged property.
- Obtain witnesses’ names and contact information.
- Report the accident to the police if necessary.
- Even if you’re not hurt, go to the emergency room—hidden injuries may surface later.
A Springfield personal injury attorney can intervene early to ensure this vital evidence remains intact. Insurance companies specialize in manipulating facts, and the more evidence you have, the better for your case.
Why is it important to gather evidence immediately after an accident?
Collecting evidence right away helps establish fault and strengthens your case. Photos, witness statements, and medical records make it harder for the insurance company to dispute your claim.
2. When Insurance Companies Begin Calling
Insurance adjusters can be very nice, but don’t be taken in—they represent the insurance company, not you. Their purpose is to pay out your claim as low as they can. If they:
- Ask you to provide a recorded statement—don’t. Anything you say will be used against you.
- Make an immediate settlement—it’s likely much less than you’re owed.
- Defer or deny your claim—stalling is the usual tactic.
A lawyer will handle these negotiations, ensuring you don’t settle for an unreasonable offer.
Should I talk to the insurance company after an accident?
No, you should avoid speaking with the insurance company directly. Let your personal injury lawyer handle the communication to avoid saying anything that could be used against you.
3. If You’re Confronted with Medical Expenses and Lost Income
Don’t brush off minor injuries. Lack of treatment can lead to expensive treatments, time off work, and financial stress. Legal actions against the perpetrator are your only savior when you struggle to cover expenses after the accident. A personal injury lawyer in Springfield, MO, will:
- Calculate your total damages, including future medical costs.
- Negotiate with insurance companies for full compensation.
- Take your case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered.
Can I get compensation for lost wages after an accident?
Yes, a personal injury lawyer can help you recover lost wages, including future income you may miss due to your injuries.
4. When Liability is Disputed
All cases of personal injury are not cut and dry. The other person may claim you were partially responsible for the accident. Missouri strictly follows a comparative fault rule. So, if you’re partially responsible for the accident, your recovery amount is diminished by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found 20% responsible for the mishap, you’ll receive $80,000. A lawyer ensures liability is assigned relatively and fights to minimize any blame placed on you.
What happens if I’m partially at fault for the accident?
Under Missouri’s comparative fault rule, your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. A lawyer can help reduce the blame assigned to you.
5. If You’re Unsure About Missouri’s Legal Deadlines
Missouri statute provides you with five years to pursue most personal injury cases. But waiting isn’t wise. Witness memories lapse, evidence is lost, and insurance companies string things along. The earlier you engage a lawyer, the more solid your case stays.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Missouri?
You have five years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim in Missouri. However, waiting too long can weaken your case.
6. If the Case Involves Long-Term or Permanent Injuries
Some accidents alter your life permanently—spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or severe burns. If recovery entails permanent disability, long-term treatment, or rehabilitation, your case is unique and needs to be treated as such. A Springfield personal injury attorney sees that you get compensated for loss of future earnings, pain and suffering, and ongoing medical expenses.
What types of damages can I recover in a personal injury case?
You have five years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim in Missouri. However, waiting too long can weaken your case.
7. When the Settlement Offer Seems Too Low
Insurance companies don’t give fair settlements easily. They begin with lowball offers and expect you to take them out of desperation. But how do you know it’s fair? Don’t sign anything if the amount doesn’t cover ALL your current and future expenses. A lawyer can review the offer and negotiate the compensation you deserve.
How do I know if a settlement offer is fair?
A fair settlement should cover all medical bills, lost wages, future expenses, and pain and suffering. If the offer is too low, a lawyer can assess it and negotiate.
Accidents are frustrating, but you don’t need to deal with the fallout alone. Your Springfield personal injury attorney can deal with the lawyers while you attend to your recovery. Don’t delay—call today and preserve your entitlement to reasonable compensation.
