We never imagine that we could experience a spinal cord injury, but unfortunately, these injuries do occur. What would be your course of action if you were in such a situation? First off, it pays to have an experienced attorney in your corner. If you’re an Arkansas resident and you or a family member is in such a predicament, explore the Phil Votaw & Associates site for compassionate and comprehensive legal assistance.
So what’s the point of teaming up with an experienced spinal cord injury attorney? Here’re potential justifications for the same.
1. Protecting your Interests
What’s the result of a spinal cord injury? When the nerves or cord suffer damage, your mobility and sensation are impaired or eliminated. Some of the other effects of such damage include:
- Permanent disability
- Unbearable pain
- Muscle spasms
- Body weakness
- Loss of balance
When facing such grave consequences, it’s normal to feel powerless and confused. Fortunately, an experienced legal ally can pursue the errant part and ensure they’re held responsible.
And let’s face it, recovery from the injury usually takes time, and the financial impact on your family can be devastating. A legal representative can aggressively pursue compensation, which can help alleviate the financial burden. That way, you can adapt and seek treatment without the added pressure and worry of mounting bills.
2. Expertise
Spinal cord injuries are complex, resulting in legal cases even more so. A spinal cord attorney is well-versed in the laws and regulations governing this type of injury and can help you identify potential compensation avenues.
For example, they can ensure your claim is within the statute of limitations deadline. Similarly, they may advise on the evidence you should submit, evaluate your claim to determine its merits, and more.
In short, they understand how to navigate the legal process and maximize settlements. As such, you can rest assured that your best interests are a top priority.
3. Establishing the Value of Your Claim
Do you know how to value a claim? Can you tell that the settlement you get is fair or reasonable? Probably not. Determining the value of your case typically requires extensive research.
An attorney grasps the process of evaluating a claim and establishing an amount that can cover the damages you have suffered. For instance, they can factor in the following aspects when assessing the value of your claim:
- Medical bills
- Future medical expenses based on your needs
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
A spinal cord injury attorney can also consult medical professionals to come up with an accurate evaluation. And given the injury’s high cost and traumatic nature of the injury, it’s vital to have a well-informed partner doing the math for you.
4. Dealing with Insurers
Picture this; you’ve been injured and have to deal with insurance companies. You file a claim, and the insurer makes a counteroffer. Should you take it?
Generally, insurance companies are out to save a buck and will do anything to minimize their liability. Hence, they may deny your claim or offer significantly less than you anticipate. Imagine the hassle of dealing with an uncooperative insurer while nursing an injury and struggling to keep your family afloat. Sounds frustrating and draining, right?
A seasoned injury attorney can handle the insurers and safeguard your rights. They understand these companies’ tactics to avoid paying claims and can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. Likewise, they’re conversant with prevailing state laws regarding such injuries and can work to ensure the insurer pays your dues.
5. Investigating Your Claim
It’s easy to assume that the other party caused your accident. However, you need evidence to establish who’s to blame. Your attorney can gather evidence and investigate your case to determine the party responsible for your injury.
A spinal cord injury attorney can help assert your rights so you can get the compensation you deserve. By helping you navigate this challenging period, they can ensure you get justice. Plus, they can offer you peace of mind, as you know someone reliable has your back throughout the process. To this end, your lawyer can do the following:
- Review medical records,
- Analyze police reports,
- Interview witnesses,
- Consult experts in the field, such as reconstruction experts and medical professionals
- Handle legal correspondence
6. Proving Negligence
You may need to pursue matters in court if negotiations don’t work. Thus, an experienced attorney comes in handy.
For instance, they can prove the spinal injury resulted from an accident occasioned by the other party’s negligence and wasn’t a pre-existing condition. Subsequently, they can present evidence to support your case and work towards getting you a favorable outcome. Such evidence can prove that the negligent party owed you a duty of care and breached it, resulting in spinal injury and damages.
A reliable spinal cord injury attorney can make the process smoother and less stressful. Given their input (as we’ve outlined), it’s essential to partner with an experienced lawyer if you are dealing with a spinal cord injury.
