Any accident or incident that injures you opens the door for a personal injury case. During this time, the services of an experienced personal injury lawyer become indispensable.
However, a lawyer will only accept your case under certain circumstances. For instance, medical treatment is key after an accident. Claiming compensation will be challenging if you refuse or neglect to get a medical evaluation for your injuries.
If you want to convince a lawyer that your case is worth pursuing, there are several steps you must take before your initial consultation.
Factors That Influence a Lawyer’s Decision
One of the first factors a lawyer considers is the subset your case falls into. This may include a vehicle accident, medical malpractice, or product liability. If your case does not fall within the lawyer’s expertise, they may decline to assist you.
Also, as mentioned, if you delay medical treatment or share a high percentage of fault for an accident, it could make your case difficult to win. In this instance, the lawyer may pass on your case.
A lawyer will also assess liability while considering the severity of your injuries. If it is clear that you have strong evidence proving the other party is to blame for an accident and your injuries, a lawyer will likely take on the case.
It is also true that because lawsuits are expensive, a lawyer will first consider the potential payment and compare it to the time and resources invested in your case. The potential for a high settlement is a motivating factor for most lawyers.
Preparing for Your Initial Consultation
You do not get unlimited chances to convince a lawyer to accept your case. The initial consultation is your best opportunity to present your case and evidence. Make the most of this consultation by:
- Having all the necessary documentation in order: You must have an accident (police) report if you were involved in an accident. You need to have a copy of your medical records, as well as proof of lost income. If you have already paid medical expenses out of pocket, you must have the receipts as proof.
If you have pictures or video footage of the accident scene and witness statements, this will also help your case substantially.
- Going into detail about the accident: It may not be pleasant, but you will have to go into detail about the accident or incident. If you were in a car accident, you must provide the date, time, location, and information about all other parties involved. The lawyer will ask you to explain what happened and inquire about your injuries.
- Being honest: Lying or embellishing will not help your case. When you consult with a lawyer for the first time, you must provide all the relevant facts and information about the incident. For instance, you must inform the lawyer if you played a part in the accident.
You can also ask the lawyer about their experience handling similar cases and their fee structure. Your initial meeting aims to determine whether you have a strong case and if the lawyer has the necessary experience and knowledge to win it.
What Does a Strong Case Look Like?
If you want a lawyer to build a strong compensation case, you must do more than just get a medical checkup. While a medical evaluation can link the accident and your injuries successfully, you must comply with all treatment plans.
If you skip doctor appointments or neglect to go for rehabilitation, you instantly weaken your case. If you do not keep a record of all your post-accident expenses, it also weakens your case.
Even if you post on social media about your accident, it could mean losing your case. Insurance companies and defense lawyers can use your social media posts against you.
Your Cooperation Strengthens Your Personal Injury Case
Your lawyer will appreciate your organization and proactiveness, which demonstrates your commitment to the case. They will also appreciate your realistic expectations about the legal process.
It’s also a bad idea to pester your lawyer if you think they are not handling the case according to your expectations. Your lawyer has the personal injury expertise and knows what to do with a personal injury case. You must give them time to consider all the details of your accident and build the strongest case they can.
By being as prepared, honest, and organized as possible, you increase your chances of a lawyer accepting your case in the first place. And by cooperating with your lawyer, you have a far better chance of winning your case.
