There are many reasons why one could entertain a personal injury claim. You may have been in the supermarket and slipped and fell on a wet patch of floor or perhaps your neighbors dog bit you or you were involved in an auto accident through no fault of your own. These are only a few examples of what can constitute personal injury. In the event you do claim for compensation the way you approach it can make a considerable difference in the amount.
It may be possible in some instances for the victim to handle his or her own claim by either dealing directly with the negligent party, the insurance company or by taking the case to small claims court. In the majority of cases it will be necessary to hire a Waukegan personal injury attorney. Whether you engage an attorney or not has a great deal to do with the extent of the injuries and damage as well as the legal ramifications of the case.
Managing the case personally:
If you try to handle the claim personally or it becomes complicated and you turn to an attorney later, it may make matters worse things. It is important that you understand your own capabilities and that you are fully aware of what’s at stake if the case is not handled correctly. Never forget, you will be going up against professional lawyers working for the defendant. If you are the least unsure of yourself then you will be better off contacting an attorney right from the beginning of the negotiations.
When you should hire an attorney:
If the case stems from a driver running into the back of your car and the result is a whiplash injury to yourself and significant damage to your vehicle then you will definitely need to hire a Waukegan personal injury attorney.
What is important to understand that an insurance company does not make the money it does by offering generous awards. An insurance company will try every trick in the book to reduce its liability and without a seasoned attorney you will not get the settlement you deserve.
The insurance company of the driver who ran into the rear of your car will have lawyers fighting for them. Lawyers spend years studying and practicing law, gathering information and knowledge that they use to represent their clients. If the insurance company of the person that you are taking to small claims court has a lawyer, then so should you.
