If you are injured and want your money fast, settle with the wrongdoer’s insurance company.
But, there is a price to pay.
If you settle quickly, you are probably getting less than you could. That’s right. A quick settlement almost always means you got pennies on the dollars you could have received.
An injury lawsuit takes us back to the days of bartering for what we wanted. One side asks for a certain amount, the other side offers far less and so it goes. There is almost nothing left in modern life that is equal to settling an accident case with an insurance company. This is why you need an experienced lawyer on your side. One that will fight for you.
Here are 3 things you should consider when hiring a lawyer:
- Does the lawyer have experience in your type of injury?
- Does the lawyer have the resources to fight the case?
- Does the lawyer understand the courts, juries and norms of your area?
These are important; since insurance companies have been known to “low ball” inexperienced attorneys.
Some people think that if they try to settle their case themselves, they will save money. My experience is that is not true. Plus, studies have shown that people with lawyers get more than those without a lawyer — even after the lawyer and all the expenses have been paid.
There is one other advantage to settling a lawsuit. It can stay private. Often my clients tell me that they do not want their personal business made common knowledge — especially if the settlement is large since it can cause friction within a family.
If you are hurt in a traffic accident or suffer a personal injury, you can talk to us at the Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie for free. We want to help you get back on your feet.
Also join us on NBC 15 LawCall here in Mobile every Sunday night at 10:30 right after the news. We will take your calls live.
Allen Ritchie
Alabama personal injury lawyer