Why Do I Need A Lawyer For My Personal Injury Claim?

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Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Claims

Many accident victims ask themselves these questions:

• “Do I need a lawyer to handle my accident claim?”
• “Since I wasn’t at fault, why should I pay legal fees?”
• “Can I negotiate directly with the insurance company?”

The answers depend on the specific facts of your situation, particularly:

• Were you or your passengers injured?
• Are multiple parties potentially responsible?
• Do you understand the five elements of negligence and how to prove them?
• Are you familiar with civil procedure rules and relevant tort law?

How Indiana’s Fault Laws Affect Your Claim

Indiana is an “at-fault” state, meaning the party responsible for the accident is liable for damages. This differs from “no-fault” states like Kentucky and Michigan.

In Indiana:

• The at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers damages
• If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own policy may provide coverage
• Special circumstances apply when drivers have insurance from no-fault states

Property Damage vs. Injury Claims

Property Damage Only

For claims involving only vehicle or property damage with no injuries, you may be able to negotiate directly with the insurance company. Claims adjusters use industry standards to estimate property damage.

Personal Injury Claims

When injuries are involved, professional legal representation becomes much more valuable. Attorney Charlie Ward notes: “Injury clients typically receive better settlements and increased compensation when an experienced personal injury attorney directs their case.”

Potential Pitfalls of Self-Representation

Insurance companies are not your advocates. Without legal representation, you may face:

• Claim denials that persist until the statute of limitations expires
• Delays designed to run out the clock on your legal options
• Disputes about fault percentages that reduce your compensation
• Settlement releases that prevent you from pursuing additional necessary compensation
• Legal knowledge gaps that insurance defense lawyers may exploit

What a Personal Injury Attorney Does For You

A skilled personal injury attorney:

• Protects your rights at every stage of the process
• Builds your case methodically to maximize compensation
• Keeps you informed throughout the process
• Stays current on relevant laws and court decisions
• Handles complex issues like medical liens and insurance reimbursements
• Considers future medical needs and wage losses in settlement negotiations

When You Need a Lawyer

If your accident required medical treatment, you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your rights and interests.

Auto Insurance Coverage

Attorney Charlie Ward’s free e-book also explains:

• Indiana’s minimum insurance requirements
• The difference between uninsured and underinsured coverage
• Which coverages you should never waive
• How umbrella policies can maximize your protection
• Determining adequate liability coverage

Get Professional Help Today

If insurance companies hire defense attorneys to protect their interests, shouldn’t you have skilled legal representation protecting yours?

For an honest assessment of your case and a free consultation without obligation, call Charlie Ward of Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers today at 317-740-1900.