Injuries can happen at any time and at any place. You can be injured at home, in your car, at your job or even walking across the street. Some injuries are minor while others can have catastrophic consequences. California accident lawyers see injury cases involving workplace injuries, car accidents, airplane accidents, nursing home accidents and many other types of injuries. If you have been injured in an accident, you may be asking yourself whether you really need to hire a lawyer.
According to California accident lawyer Emery Ledger of Ledger & Associates, the answer to that question depends on many factors. One important factor is the extent of the injuries that you suffered. A minor fender bender where you were not seriously injured, for example, may be something that you can handle quickly on your own. On the other hand, a serious car accident that required you to be hospitalized may require the expert services of an accident lawyer. While it is true that you are never required to hire a lawyer to represent you, for serious injuries you may need the advice and guidance of an experienced lawyer. Typically, insurance companies will offer you a token amount to settle your claim shortly after the accident. If you are certain that you did not suffer any lasting injuries, then you may choose to accept the offer and move on. However, if you have any doubt about the extent of your injuries, then you should at least consult with a lawyer before accepting the offer.
Another important factor is what type of accident you were involved in. Some accidents, by there very nature, are better handled by a lawyer. A good example is an airplane accident. When the defendant is a large corporation such as an airline company, you may need someone that has dealt with them before and knows how to investigate and litigate your case so that you receive the compensation you deserve. Another good example is an asbestos related cancer case. Due to the highly scientific nature of the injuries caused by asbestos, and the complicated legal issues, you may need an experienced lawyer on your side.
A big factor for many people is the comfort level that they feel when they have a lawyer on their side. Dealing with an insurance company and the court system while you are also trying to heal from your injuries can be extremely stressful. For this reason, many people simply feel more comfortable allowing a lawyer to handle the case so that they can focus on healing. Consider this the “peace of mind factor” when deciding whether or not you need to hire a lawyer.
In the end, the decision to hire a lawyer for your California accident is a highly personal decision and one that you will have to make after considering all the relevant factors. If you have made the choice to hire a lawyer, or simply want a free detailed evaluation of your case before you make the decision, contact the law offices of Ledger & Associates at 1-800-300-0001 or visit them online at www.ledgerlaw.com.
