Maximizing your settlement: Why Hiring a Personal injury lawyer in Philadelphia gets you more from insurance companies
If you’ve been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you’re likely dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of recovery. While insurance companies are supposed to help in times like these, they often look out for their own bottom line first. Many people try to handle their claims alone, assuming it will be quicker or save them money. However, hiring a personal injury lawyer in Philadelphia can exponentially improve your chances of getting the full compensation you deserve.
Insurance companies prioritize their profits
Insurance companies are in the business of making money, not handing it out. They hire skilled adjusters trained to minimize payouts and protect the company’s financial interests. After an accident, the adjuster assigned to your case may seem friendly and cooperative, but their goal is to pay you as little as possible.
When you handle your own claim, you may unknowingly accept a lowball offer. Without legal expertise, it’s easy to fall for tactics like denying your injuries are serious, delaying your claim, or claiming certain damages are not covered. This is why people who hire personal injury attorneys generally receive higher settlements. A savvy and seasoned attorney understands the legal system and uses this knowledge to build a strong case that forces insurance companies to take your claim seriously.
How a personal injury lawyer builds a strong case
Personal injury attorneys know best how to investigate accidents, gather evidence, and prove the extent of your injuries. They begin by thoroughly examining your case, including medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation. This in-depth review is crucial because it helps identify every loss you are entitled to claim, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future treatment costs.
Insurance companies rely on you not understanding these damages, often offering settlements that only cover your immediate medical bills. A personal injury attorney ensures that all present and future losses are included in the demand for compensation. They also negotiate aggressively, using their knowledge of past cases and insurance company tactics to push for a higher settlement.
Myths about personal injury lawyers
Some people avoid hiring personal injury attorneys due to common misconceptions. Here are a few myths worth debunking:
- Myth 1: Lawyers are too expensive. Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. Their fees are a percentage of the settlement, so there are no upfront costs.
- Myth 2: It’s quicker to handle the claim yourself. While insurance companies may initially offer a faster settlement if you don’t have a lawyer, that offer is often much lower than what you deserve. Taking the time to work with an attorney can result in a significantly larger settlement.
- Myth 3: All lawyers are the same. Personal injury attorneys specialize in assisting people who’ve been damaged due to someone else’s negligent actions. Their expertise in this specific area of law allows them to navigate the complexities of injury claims and secure better outcomes.
How a personal injury attorney maximizes your settlement
A personal injury attorney’s goal is to make sure you receive fair compensation, and they use a variety of strategies to achieve that. These include:
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Your attorney will take over all communication with the insurance company and use their experience to counter low offers.
- Documenting the full scope of your damages: They ensure your claim includes all your losses, not just the obvious ones, like medical bills.
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary: If the insurance company absolutely refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can file a lawsuit, showing that you’re serious about getting what you deserve.
- Using experts to strengthen your case: Attorneys often bring in experts like doctors or accident reconstruction specialists to testify about the impact of your injuries or how the accident happened.
Without legal representation, the insurance company holds all the power. A lawyer shifts that balance and forces them to pay what’s fair.
Get the best result with a local personal injury lawyer
For those in Philadelphia, hiring a personal injury lawyer with experience in local laws and court systems is essential. Every city has unique legal procedures and nuances that can affect your claim. A local lawyer knows how Philadelphia courts operate, and they’ll be familiar with the judges and insurance company representatives in your area.
Hiring a Philadelphia-based personal injury attorney increases your chances of getting the best possible settlement. They’ll have the skills, knowledge, and resources to fight the insurance companies and ensure you aren’t left with financial burdens after an accident.
Don’t believe the hype: Hire a Philadelphia personal injury attorney
An insurance company’s goal is to settle for the lowest amount, and without a personal injury lawyer, you might accept less than you need. Hiring an attorney gives you an advocate to build a strong case, negotiate effectively, and maximize your settlement. In Philadelphia, an experienced attorney ensures you get the compensation you deserve after your injury.