The role of the car accident lawyer in an injury case is often unclear. Many injured individuals may wonder whether they can handle their own claim just as successfully without representation because they may not fully understand everything that an attorney can actually do throughout every stage of a case. The following are some examples to give you a better idea of the steps an attorney takes during the life of a car accident claim.
Evaluating the value of your case
Though you may have an idea of the extent of your injuries and medical bills you are facing after an accident, few victims realize just how much their case is worth. You can recover for many types of injury-related losses other than the medical expenses you have incurred. Some losses can include:
- Estimated future medical costs
- Income lost due to the inability to work because of your injury
- Home health assistance
- Medically-related transportation
- Replacement services for tasks you were unable to complete due to your injury
- Pain and suffering
Too many injured individuals accept settlement offers that are insufficient to cover their losses because they are not aware of the true value of your case. An evaluation by a car accident lawyer can help ensure you receive the amount of compensation you deserve.
Representing you to your insurance company
Even if you understand the true value of your case, it does not necessarily mean that your insurance company will offer you that amount. Many injured car accident victims receive partial offers or even complete denials for a variety of reasons. A car accident attorney will understand how to negotiate with your insurer and stand up for your rights to full recovery.
Conducting investigation to determine fault
In car accident cases involving serious injury or death, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit against the responsible party to obtain full and fair compensation. However, in order to recover at all in a legal claim, you must be able to demonstrate that the other party was at least 50 percent at fault for the accident. An attorney will have the resources necessary to investigate your accident and determine whether the other party was at fault and whether you have a viable claim against them.
Filing a lawsuit on your behalf
If your car accident attorney determines that you have a valid legal claim, they have the knowledge and ability to guide you through every step of the lawsuit process. A lawsuit involves drafting and filing a petition, trading information with the other side, engaging in negotiation, and possibly even going to trial. A car accident lawyer plays an integral role through every step of the lawsuit process.
If you would like more information regarding how a car accident attorney actually helps you, please call Michigan Injury Lawyers at 313-438-4357 today.