One of the major questions injured people ask their attorneys is: when can I get a settlement in my case?
This is often not because of greed but rather the practicality of paying bills and raising a family. A vehicle accident may affect your life in many ways. It may leave you unable to work; it may mean years of medical treatment. So here comes the problem: how do you feed the family while you get well?
There are programs that can help like workers comp., social security disability, government assistance programs and even private insurance. According to many lawyers, what you don’t want to do is rush to a fast settlement. As they explain, it will cost you and your family dearly in the long run.
The major factor is whether you have reached what lawyers call “maximum medical improvement.” This is when the extent of your injuries is clearly known.
The reason lawyers advise you wait is because once you settle with an insurance company that is the end of their payments to you. If you discover additional problems down the road, you are on your own.
Here is a typical case. Sally was in a car wreck and received treatment. She wanted her medical bills and lost wages paid and pushed for a quick settlement. Later it was found she had actually three different injuries. Though the case took several years, the settlement was in excess of one million dollars giving her the resources to raise her children, send them to college and provide the specialized medical treatment she needed.
Through some TV commercials, it may seem getting your money is nice and easy. It is rarely that way. Most companies and individuals want to pay the least amount possible. That is why you have to be willing to take it to court and let a judge or jury decide.
If you are in an accident, one of the first things you should do is talk with a personal injury attorney.
If you have questions, you can consult our Online Legal Directory to find an attorney in your area.