When an accident occurs, a Personal injury lawyer is needed to protect victims and their families. These attorneys help clients get the medical care they need, secure fair settlements from insurance companies and, in the event that a trial is required, prepare a strong case to be presented before a jury.
Personal injuries can be extremely devastating for individuals and their families. They often result in large medical bills and loss of income from being unable to work. In some cases, the injuries are so severe that they are permanently disabling.
A knowledgeable New York personal injury attorney can make sure that victims receive the compensation they deserve for their losses. They can also take on insurance companies that are not treating their clients fairly and help them navigate the complex legal processes involved in these claims.
During the initial consultation with a potential Personal injury lawyer, it is important to ask questions to ensure that the attorney has the experience and qualifications necessary to handle your case. Here are some of the questions you should ask:
Do They Handle Cases Like Yours?
Personal injury law is a broad field that encompasses many different types of accidents. You want a Personal Injury lawyer who has extensive experience handling cases that are similar to yours. If you were hurt in a car accident, you should find an attorney who has handled plenty of those kinds of cases. Similarly, if you were hurt at work, you need a lawyer who understands workers’ compensation and labor laws.
You should also find out if the lawyer has successfully handled any personal injury cases that have gone to trial. This is important because many personal injury cases end up being settled before they reach the trial stage. A lawyer who has a proven track record of successful trials is more likely to be able to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Another consideration is the amount of fault assigned to each party in a lawsuit. New York is one of the few states that still uses a pure comparative negligence system. This means that, if you are found to be partially at fault for an accident, your damages will be reduced by the percentage of the total fault assigned to you. A good Personal Injury lawyer will be able to explain how this works in detail and determine the best way to pursue a claim based on your circumstances.
Emotions run high after an accident, making it difficult to maintain an objective perspective. A qualified Personal Injury lawyer provides an objective viewpoint and helps their clients make decisions based on facts and legal merit rather than emotions. They can also assist with evidence collection, conduct thorough research to support their case and prepare a strong presentation for trial. They are skilled negotiators who can negotiate with insurance companies and the other parties’ lawyers to secure a fair settlement or, in the event of a trial, present a compelling argument in front of a jury to obtain justice.