When Do You Need A Personal Injury Lawyer: A Guide For Accident Victims

Published on: 09 March 2024 Last Updated on: 19 March 2024

Accidents are unexpected and traumatic events that can have far-reaching consequences for those involved.

But if you are involved in a serious accident and it has left you with severe injuries, you might wonder if it would be worth hiring an attorney.

Thus, you would need an injury lawyer in every situation, but there are a few exceptional cases where you might suffer a severe injury. Hence, it might be best to seek legal advice from an experienced personal injury lawyer.

To mitigate your situation, you can contact an injury lawyer in Grand Rapids, as they will be able to give you the best advice.

In this article, you will discover when and where you would need a personal injury lawyer.

When Do You Need A Personal Injury Lawyer?

Many accident victims hire lawyers to assist them and navigate the steps of filing their claims. However, you might need to decide when to hire a lawyer after having an accident or whether you need legal assistance.

Hence, you do not have to meet specific criteria to hire an injury attorney after an accident. Thus, here is a list of situations when you need to hire a personal injury lawyer.

1. When You Have Significant Injuries

In recent days, the number of car accidents has increased to a significant level. The reports published by the WHO claim that the number of annual road traffic deaths has risen to 1.19 million.

If you have experienced a serious injury from a car accident, then you are likely to face hefty medical bills. Thus, you would need an attorney to mitigate this situation.

Hence, the personal injury lawyer will help you fill out the proper forms in order to receive your medical bills covered.

Similarly, auto accidents that produce injuries can warrant legal action against the defendants for compensation. Having legal assistance from the beginning can help you anticipate the best way to proceed after your serious car accident.

2. Your Accident Includes Different Parties

When an accident involves different parties, it becomes complex. Some countries follow a contributory negligence policy that permits insurance companies to assign a percentage of faults to all parties in an accident.

As a result, you need to hire a personal injury attorney to make sure you understand which insurance company to file your claims.

Therefore, car accident attorneys have extensive experience navigating various car accident cases.

Hence, hire an attorney to help you understand the procedure for filing an insurance claim. Moreover, they will communicate on your behalf with the insurance adjuster and all parties involved.

3. No Cooperation From Insurance Company

When you file for a claim with the at-fault party insurance company, you should be provided with payments to cover the accident expense without any issue.

Thus, the insurance company is in the business of incurring money. Moreover, they need to offer more payouts or even deny the claim outright to save money.

However, if the insurance company is not cooperating, you might need an attorney to negotiate for a higher offer and a wrongful claim denial.

4. Planning To Take Legal Actions

If you plan to take legal action against the at-fault driver or their insurance company, you need a personal injury lawyer.

Thus, if the insurance company completely cooperates with your claim, then at-fault driver’s insurance coverage might not be enough to cover your expenses.

On the other hand, you might want to pursue non-economic damages, for instance:

Emotional distress.
Pain and suffering.
Loss of enjoyment of life.

Thus, with the help of a lawsuit, you can seek compensation beyond what you might qualify for through an insurance claim.

Furthermore, you need a professional car accident attorney to guide you through the legal process, present you at the court, and help you gather the right evidence.

5. Difficulty In Compensation Claims

If you have difficulty receiving your claims, a personal injury attorney will help you obtain them.

However, you might feel stressed, traumatized, and overwhelmed when you file your claims or even talk about your accident. Thus, the professional will help you mitigate the situation and maximize your compensation. The attorney will determine for which you are entitled to make claims.

This will make sure that you are not taking advantage of the person held responsible. In return, you are offered a fair amount for your loss and suffering.

Hence, an attorney can take this burden off your shoulders, thereby assisting you move forward.

6. Difficulty In Carrying Out Details

Evidence plays a huge part in personal injury cases. Thus, when you face an injury, you must prove negligence and the duty of care.

However, personal injury lawyers are aware of this and will help you take your time to work with the evidence.

Moreover, in other cases, you can hire a lawyer to work with an accident reconstruction professional to help you establish a strong case.

Therefore, as a part of the investigation process, the lawyer will help you meet the eyewitness, gather surveillance camera feeds, and make sure the desired outcomes are met.

List Of Cases Personal Injury Lawyer Handle

Personal injury lawyer deals with a variety of cases.

Here is a list of some of the most frequent cases we deal with:

During a motor vehicle accident. It can involve a car, boat, motorcycle, and other vehicle.
During a wrongful death. It might be a traumatic situation, but a lawyer will help you receive compensation for many things.
Slip and fall accident.
Birth injuries. This situation can be traumatic for the families, and if it is due to a negligent mistake, then the family is entitled to compensation.
During a dog or animal bite. This accident can be more serious than a person might expect.

Hire A Personal Injury Attorney Today

Thus, we suggest you get an attorney as soon as possible after an accident to ensure that your claim is as strong as possible.

This is because the greater the evidence against the negligent party, the greater the chance of receiving a settlement.

So, appoint a lawyer quickly, as they can help you gather the evidence before it gets lost. Similarly, the lawyer will help you set settlements with an insurance company.

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Ankita Tripathy

Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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What’s Liability In A Personal Injury Case?

You probably heard the term “liability” while reading about a personal injury case. However, do you know how it works? Or, why should you consider using it while handling a personal injury claim? Well, if your answer is no, don’t worry. In this article, we’re going to discuss a little on the subject of personal injury and proffer a bit of additional information, too. But, if we miss out on something, don’t forget to tell us about it in the comment section below. We’ll answer you as soon as possible. What Is A Personal Injury Case? A personal injury incident can include trauma, accident, mental strain, and illness caused due to someone else’s action. However, you can only go for the claim if you’ve been physically or psychologically affected due to the externally-caused problem. Also, before you can submit your issue, you’ll need to understand the type of damage you’ve sustained. Or else, you might end up submitting the wrong claim altogether. So, in this case, it will be ideal for you to opt for a Long Island Personal Injury Lawyer. Thanks to their experience and expertise, they’ll know precisely what you have to do in your personal injury claim submission. Besides, the attorney will also offer their help in solving all of your paperwork accordingly. They can also represent you in court. So, it’s better to hire someone who can assist you in every possible aspect. Personal Injury And Liability - What’s The Catch? From a general viewpoint, almost every person is responsible for whatever action they have taken. Apart from that, the law also assumes that each individual has the responsibility to act properly so that someone else doesn’t get injured. However, if someone fails to follow the aforementioned duty, and an injury occurs, they’ll be held liable for the incident. The definition of liability can also include - An individual has a certain duty to follow to keep everyone else safe and secure.However, they’ve somehow failed to perform the same properly.And, due to that reason, another person has sustained a potentially life-ending injury.The person who didn’t do their duty correctly will be liable for the consequences. Remember, you can only hold someone else liable if you’ve been injured due to their action. If they didn’t lose anything or didn’t suffer any damage, they won’t be liable for anything. Hence, before you make such a claim against someone, you should always ensure that you’ve kept the proof in the right place. If you cannot provide the same, you won’t be able to acquire even a single penny from the defendant. Even an attorney can’t help you in this aspect. Fault, Negligence, And Liability When talking about liability, you’ll probably find two more words associated with the same - fault and negligence. Here’s what they mean. So, “fault” is all about something else making a mistake knowingly to cause harm to you. An example of this will be an individual slashing someone else with a knife. In this aspect, they knew that the action would hurt the other person. Yet, they still did it. On the other hand, the act of “negligence” isn’t as direct as that of “fault.” It can be either an act done deliberately or an accidental omission of something. In any case, if you want to make a personal injury claim, you’ll need to prove the fault or negligence of another person. Or else, it might not work out as you wanted. Types Of Liability When it comes to liability in a personal injury case, it can be divided into two options. Here’s what you need to know about it. 1. Strict Liability A negligent party can be held strictly liable for a case if they can prove that the negligence was done deliberately. In this case, you can omit the aspect of proving their intent altogether. For example, a strict liability claim can apply in a product injury case. If the item was a little defective in one way or another and caused an injury, the seller and manufacturer will be held liable for the damages. Apart from this, some other cases of strict liability can include injuries involving - dog bites, wild animals, and other dangerous activities. 2. Vicarious Liability In most personal injury felonies, the individual who has acted negligently will be considered as liable for the damages. But, in some cases, a party will be vicariously liable for damages as well. Let us share an example to offer a little more clarity on this aspect. Say, you’re working in an office as an employee and have started a fire in the building due to some reason. However, if someone was injured due to the same, they’ll sue your employee as you, as an employee, are their responsibility to look after. And, if your boss has to pay for the claim, they’ll be called vicariously liable for the incident. FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions In this section, we’re going to talk about some stuff related to our topic that we didn’t discuss before. Let’s keep reading to know more about it. 1. How Is Liability For An Injury Determined? The amount of the responsible person’s liability is going to be determined by comparing the status of their carelessness. The percentage of the same will tell us the amount of money they are going to pay to compensate for the damage. 2. How Do You Establish A Liability? To prove that someone is liable for an injury, you’ll need to provide information about their legal duty and how they’ve failed it. Apart from this, you’ll also need to offer a little bit more information about the extent of physical harm. The better the proof, the higher your chance of winning the lawsuit will be. Wrapping It All Up! So, that’ll be all for this article. We hope you’ve understood the true meaning behind liability and how you can claim it. However, if you still have something else to ask, don’t be shy. Use the comment section and let us know what you’re thinking. We’ll be glad to help you out. Additionals: What Personal Injury Law in California InvolvesTop 10 Colorado Springs Personal Injury AttorneysWhat Are The Effective Ways To Communicate With A Personal Injury LawyerFiling A Personal Injury Lawsuit In South Carolina: Here Are 7 Things You Should Know

After A Construction Accident: Worker’s Rights, Compensation, And Legal Recourse

The workplace is one of the most dangerous places a person can be in. Accidents can still occur even though safety managers and company owners do their best to uphold safety in the workplace. In fact, per data from the International Labor Organization (ILO), around 340 million workplace-related accidents are recorded every year. These accidents happen across various sectors, including the construction industry. Construction accidents are a fairly common occurrence. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an estimated 150,000 construction accidents are reported each year. These accidents affect construction workers and their loved ones. Worry not; if you’re working in a construction company and encounter an accident while doing your job, you have rights and can file for compensation. And if you’re forced to a tight spot, you have legal pathways that you can take with the help of an experienced construction accident lawyer. Want to know more about the aforementioned subjects? Continue reading below to learn more. What Are Workers’ Rights In Case Of A Construction Workplace Accident? Construction workers are covered by a set of different legal protections that shield them from harm while they do their jobs in the workplace. For starters, construction companies are required to ensure that they provide a hazard-free working environment for their personnel. Further, they’re required to have insurance to cover any unexpected eventualities like construction accidents. Those are just some of the legal protections construction workers like you are guaranteed. Thus, construction workers have the right to work in a safe workplace environment and file a claim for their injuries and other losses if they have an unforeseen accident while they’re at work. If you’ve been injured on the job, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Your health and well-being should always be your top priority. Once you’ve received the necessary medical care, it’s important to report the accident to your employer or to your immediate supervisor. This step is necessary to notify your construction company employer that you’ve had an accident on the job and you wish to file for just compensation. Construction Workers’ Compensation After A Workplace Accident In many cases, workers who are injured on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help cover the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and other expenses related to your construction accident injury. To receive these benefits, you’ll need to file a claim with your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier. Filing a construction accident workers' compensation claim is a complicated and tedious process. You’ll need to accomplish tons of paperwork, interview witnesses, gather various pieces of evidence, obtain medical and workplace records, and so much more in filing your claim. In addition, it’ll take a lot of back-and-forth between you, your employer, and the insurer as your claim application is being processed. Say You Diligently Cooperated With Your Employer Say you’ve prepared and submitted all of your documents on time, diligently cooperated with your employer and their insurance company, and built a strong claim case. If that’s the case, your claim will likely get approved. Yet there’s a chance that you’ll get a reduced amount award compared to your original claim. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that workers’ compensation approval depends on a case-to-case basis. Your construction company’s insurer will process construction accident claims depending on their insurance coverage plan, the prevailing laws in the state where you’re, and so on. Workers’ Legal Recourse After A Construction Accident If your workers’ compensation claim is denied or if you feel that you’re not receiving the full benefits you’re entitled to, it’s a good idea to consult with a construction accident lawyer. An experienced attorney specializing in helping construction accident victims can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in legal proceedings. Your construction accident lawyer can help you file an appeal with your company’s insurer in case your initial compensation filing is denied or you’ve received a reduced claim award. To add, they can initiate and carry out negotiations with your company and their insurer. If no legal conclusion that’s amicable to all the parties involved is reached, your attorney can proceed with filing a case in a court of law and handle the reins from there on. What To File? In addition to workers’ compensation benefits, you may file a lawsuit in personal injury against the third party who was responsible for your injury too. For example, if a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer was negligent and their actions contributed to your injury, you may be able to hold them accountable through a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury lawsuit can help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the injuries you’ve contracted in a construction accident. Yet it’s important to note that there are strict time limits for filing a personal injury lawsuit. If you wait too long to take legal action, you may lose your right to seek compensation. Fortunately, a construction accident lawyer can help out with that too. What You Need To Know About Working With A Construction Accident Attorney It’s important to understand that every construction accident case is unique. The specific rights and options available to you will depend on the circumstances of your accident and the laws in your state. That’s why it’s important to consult with a construction accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights and options. When you meet with a lawyer, they’ll review the details of your case and help you determine the best course of action. They may recommend filing a workers’ compensation claim, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, or taking other legal action. Plus, they’ll help you gather pieces of evidence to support your case and will represent you in any legal proceedings. Navigating Complex Legal System One of the benefits of working with a construction accident lawyer is that they can help you navigate the complex legal system. They’ll handle all the paperwork and legal procedures on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Also, they’ll advocate for your rights and best interests, working to ensure that you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. Besides helping you seek compensation for your injuries, a construction accident lawyer can also help you hold any responsible parties accountable for their actions. This can help prevent similar accidents from happening in the future and can help improve safety standards in your company and the construction industry in the bigger picture. To Conclude If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, it’s important to know that you’re not entirely in a hopeless position. You’re entitled to certain rights and can file a construction accident claim with your company’s insurer. And there are legal options available to help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries. A construction accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and represent you in legal proceedings. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help – you deserve justice and compensation for your injuries. Read Also: 7 Common Construction Project Management Problems Crucial Reasons To Choose Prefabricated Construction Methods What to Do if You’re in an Accident with a Placarded Truck in Tampa

Understanding The California License Points System

Points are assigned for accidents and traffic tickets. The revocation or suspension of some or all of your driving privileges can take place if you receive a particular number of points within a certain period, depending on the violation you committed. If you speed, run a red light, or do any other moving crime, you will get points. As a driver in the state, you need to understand the system regarding California points on your license, as it is very important to maintain a clean driving record and keep your insurance premiums in check. By exploring how points are assigned, the consequences of their accumulation, and the options for point removal, you can equip yourself with the knowledge needed to proactively manage your driving privileges. How Points are Assigned When you violate traffic laws in California, points are assigned to your driving record based on the severity of the offense. Minor infractions typically result in one point being added to your record. These can include speeding, running a stop sign, or making an illegal U-turn. More serious violations, like reckless driving or driving under the influence, can lead to two points or more being assigned. The number of points you accumulate within a certain time frame can have consequences such as license suspension or increased insurance premiums. It is important to note that receiving too many points within a specific period can result in harsh penalties. For example, if you accumulate four points in just 12 months, six points in 24 months, or eight points in 36 months, your license may be suspended. Being mindful of the points system and driving responsibly can help you maintain a clean driving record and avoid potential repercussions. Consequences of Accumulating Points Accumulating points on your California driving record can lead to various consequences, including license suspension and increased insurance premiums. If you accumulate 4 points in 12 months, 6 points in 24 months, or 8 points in 36 months, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may suspend your license. Driving with a suspended license can result in further penalties and fines if caught. Insurance companies often review driving records when policies are up for renewal. With points on your record, you may face increased insurance premiums or even have your coverage dropped altogether. Drive safely and avoid accumulating points to maintain a clean driving record. Remember, points stay on your record for 3 to 7 years, depending on the violation. Being mindful of your driving habits can help you steer clear of these consequences and keep your driving privileges intact. Point Removal and Reduction Options To improve your driving record in California, you can explore various options for removing or reducing points accumulated due to traffic violations. One way to reduce points is by attending traffic school. By completing a state-approved traffic school course, you may be eligible to have one point removed from your record. This option is available once every 18 months. Another method to reduce points is through a 'Negligent Operator Treatment System' (NOTS) hearing. During this hearing, you can present your case and potentially have points reduced or removed. If you maintain a clean driving record for a certain period, points can also be automatically reduced. For instance, one point is typically deducted after driving for one year without any additional violations. It's necessary to understand these options and take proactive steps to improve your driving record and avoid potential consequences such as license suspension or increased insurance premiums. Impact on Auto Insurance Rates Reducing points on your driving record in California can positively impact your auto insurance rates. Points on your record signal to insurance companies that you may pose a higher risk on the road, potentially leading to increased premiums. By maintaining a clean driving record, free of points or with reduced points, you demonstrate to insurers that you're a responsible driver, which can result in lower insurance costs. Insurance providers often review your driving record when determining your rates. Having fewer points can lead to discounts or better offers, as it shows that you're less likely to be involved in accidents or commit traffic violations. Some insurance companies offer specific programs for drivers with good records, allowing them to save even more on their premiums. By taking steps to reduce the points on your California driving record, such as attending traffic school or driving violation-free for a certain period, you can potentially enjoy savings on your auto insurance rates. It's a proactive approach that not only improves your driving record but also benefits your wallet. Tips for Avoiding License Points To maintain a clean driving record in California, follow these practical tips to avoid accumulating license points: (1) Always obey traffic laws and signs. This includes following speed limits, stopping at red lights, and using turn signals consistently. (2) Stay focused while driving. Avoid distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Keeping your full attention on the road can prevent careless mistakes. (3) Be mindful of road conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. This means slowing down in adverse weather or heavy traffic to reduce the risk of accidents. (4) Maintain your vehicle properly to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to violations. Regularly check your brakes, tires, lights, and signals to ensure they're in good working order. (5) If you receive a traffic ticket, consider attending traffic school to prevent points from appearing on your record. By following these tips, you can steer clear of accumulating license points and maintain a clean driving history. Conclusion Understanding the California license points system is highly important in maintaining a clean driving record. By knowing how points are assigned, the consequences of accumulating points, and options for removal and reduction. You can avoid potential penalties and higher insurance rates. Remember to drive safely, follow all traffic laws, and stay informed about your points to keep your license in good standing. Read Also: The Evolution Of Braking Systems In Modern Vehicles: A Leap Towards Preventing Rear-End Collisions 7 Important Car Driving Safety Tips You Should Not Skip! Are Trucks Safer To Drive Than Cars?

When Do You Need A Personal Injury Lawyer: A Guide For Accident Victims