Why Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Some potential clients ask me why they should hire me or any other lawyer. They know that they or their family member is clearly injured and another party is clearly responsible for the accident or slip and fall. They think that they can negotiate a fair settlement by themselves with the insurance company or responsible party. They think hiring a lawyer is unnecessary. However, these potential clients may not realize the following.

Lawyers know the law

What someone may think is an open and shut case on liability (who is at fault), many lawyers may see multiple problems. Just because there is a hole in the sidewalk or you think the car in front of you stopped suddenly, that does not equate to legal fault. Who is at fault is a question of law to be determined based on all of the facts, evidence, the legislation and common law principles. I am trained to advance every legal argument based on the evidence and law to help prove that the other party was responsible for the accident and slip and fall. Often, the insurance company or defence lawyers will deny liability. I marshal the available evidence in support of my client’s case despite opposing arguments.

I do not charge for initial consultations

You have two years from the date of the accident or injury to start a lawsuit, with minor exceptions. It does not hurt or cost you anything to pick up the phone or meet with me to assess your chances of a successful lawsuit. What you may think is not a big case or is not worth pursuing might actually turn out to be a significant case.

Lawyers are trained negotiators

Once we gather all of the necessary evidence and give it to the opposing parties, we attempt to resolve or settle the lawsuit. This involves negotiating a fair settlement amount. Knowing when to negotiate and how much is a skill that good lawyers possess. Those unfamiliar with the personal injury world may exaggerate or understate what a file is worth.

Fighting a parking ticket is not the same as a lawsuit

Many people have fought their own parking ticket or traffic offence in court and won. However, a lawsuit with an opposing lawyer is not the same. When you are seeking to obtain fair compensation, you can bet that the other parties or insurance company does not want to pay you a single cent. A lawsuit is akin to the big leagues and accordingly you will require a personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the complex legal system.

You only get one kick at the can

If you decide to represent yourself and later on you miss a step or obtain a low settlement, then the law does not allow you to start another lawsuit to correct your mistake. In other words, you cannot have two kicks at the same can.

If I can be of any assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.