After an accident, many people wonder if hiring a personal injury lawyer will actually increase their settlement. It is a fair question, especially when medical bills and lost income start to pile up. At the Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell, we are often asked whether hiring a lawyer makes a real difference. In most cases, it does.
Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their goal is to settle claims for as little as possible. Adjusters may sound friendly, but they are trained to minimize payouts. Without a lawyer, you are at a disadvantage, especially if you do not know how to value your case or understand what you are legally entitled to.
Common tactics used by insurers include:
- Offering quick, low settlements before injuries are fully evaluated
- Pressuring you to give recorded statements
- Blaming you for part of the accident
- Downplaying your pain or treatment needs
A personal injury lawyer steps in to protect your rights and push back against these tactics.
Studies Show Higher Settlements With Legal Representation
Multiple studies, including research from the Insurance Research Council, have found that people who hire personal injury lawyers typically receive significantly higher settlements than those who try to handle claims on their own.
While results vary depending on the facts of each case, having a lawyer often means:
- A clearer understanding of your damages, including future costs
- Stronger negotiation with insurance companies
- The ability to file a lawsuit if fair compensation is not offered
- Proper handling of medical bills and liens
A Lawyer Can Identify Damages You May Overlook
After an accident, you might think the value of your claim is based only on medical bills and car repairs. But many cases involve other types of damages, such as:
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Future medical treatment
- Loss of enjoyment of life
An experienced personal injury attorney knows how to document these damages and present them effectively.
You Pay Nothing Unless We Recover Compensation
One reason some people hesitate to hire a lawyer is cost. But at our firm, there are no upfront fees. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win. This allows you to access legal help without taking on financial risk.
Insurance Companies Know Who Takes Cases Seriously
When you have a lawyer, especially one who is willing to take your case to court, insurers know they cannot pressure or underpay you as easily. Often, just having legal representation leads to better settlement offers.
Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer Before Accepting a Settlement
If you have been injured in an accident in California, do not accept a settlement offer until you speak with a lawyer. You may be entitled to more than the insurance company is offering. At the Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell, we offer free consultations and only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you pursue the full value of your claim.
