Declining a Personal Injury Court Appearance?

Personal Injury Lawyer in Wytheville, VA

4 Reasons Why You Still May Want to Hire an Attorney

Getting injured through the negligence or fault of another can turn your world upside down. Recovering at the hospital, mounting medical bills and time missed from work are all cause for worry. Pain and difficulty with mobility may prompt you to decide against appearing and court and as such, you may not believe you need the help of a lawyer. However, there are several ways an attorney can help you settle your personal injury case, even if you never see the inside of a courtroom.

1. Collection of Data

After an accident, it may be difficult for you to contact or visit any witnesses who could testify as to what they saw on the day of the incident. An attorney could be helpful in gathering all the data you need, such as witness accounts, police reports and any other papers pertinent to proving your case. This also allows you to focus on your recovery and gives you additional time to rest.

2. Verification of Medical Reports

Once your doctor has treated you for your injuries and declared you are either healed or stabilized, your lawyer can begin gathering and verifying reports from doctors and facilities you have visited during your recovery. This includes emergency room reports and data gathered by specialists. Your attorney may be able to recover this information more quickly than your insurance company, which may take months to release it to you.

3. Insurance Negotiations

Negotiating a fair settlement from an insurance company can be one of the most daunting chapters of a personal injury case. Pain, exhaustion and wanting the case to be resolved may cause you to settle right away instead of continuing negotiations. An experienced personal injury attorney can meet with insurance claims adjusters and work to get you the compensation you deserve.

4. Court or Arbitration Representation

If you cannot appear in court or do not wish to represent yourself, an attorney can represent you and your interests if the case should go to arbitration or a trial. You will likely be kept informed of the proceedings daily and what outcome, if any, has occurred. This can be especially helpful if you have mobility issues after your accident and cannot drive or ride in a vehicle. It is important to remember that you will likely have to sign documents that give your attorney permission to speak and act on your behalf during any legal proceeding.

Protecting your rights after an injury caused by someone else’s negligence can be difficult, but hiring an attorney can help you navigate the experience, even if you do not go to court. Consult with a personal injury lawyer in Wytheville, VA today for more information about how legal representation can make all the difference in your case.

Contact The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt for their insight into personal injury claims and reasons to hire a lawyer.