Chicago Injury Lawyer Blog
When someone is injured in an accident, the decision to hire a lawyer can significantly affect the financial outcome of their claim. Studies and real-world examples show that claimants with legal representation generally secure much higher settlements compared to those who handle claims on their own. This difference arises from a lawyer’s expertise, negotiation skills, and ability to maximize compensation by using available resources.
Skilled in Maximizing Claim Value
Personal injury lawyers have extensive experience in valuing injury claims. Without legal guidance, many claimants may underestimate the true value of their damages, including:
- Medical Expenses (current and future medical costs),
- Lost Wages and future earning potential,
- Pain and Suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment,
- Permanent Disability or long-term care needs.
Lawyers understand how to assess the long-term financial consequences of an injury, such as future medical costs or diminished earning capacity, ensuring that claimants seek compensation for the full scope of their damages. This leads to much higher settlements.
Insurance Companies Offer More When Lawyers Are Involved
Insurance companies aim to minimize their payouts and are adept at convincing claimants to settle for less than they deserve. They often present lowball offers to individuals without legal representation, knowing that many will accept them due to a lack of understanding about the claims process.
When a lawyer is involved, insurers know they are dealing with a professional who understands the legal intricacies and will push for a higher settlement. A study by the Insurance Research Council shows that claimants who hire an attorney receive three to four times more than those who handle claims on their own.
Skilled Negotiation
Negotiating a settlement with an insurance company requires experience. Lawyers are trained negotiators who know the tactics used by insurers to reduce claim payouts. They build strong cases supported by medical records, expert testimony, and legal precedent, which compels insurers to take the claim seriously.
Injured claimants without representation may accept lower offers simply because they do not have the experience or confidence to negotiate. A lawyer’s ability to push back and present compelling evidence often results in much higher settlement offers.
Access to Expert Witnesses and Resources
Proving the extent of damages, especially in complex or severe injury cases, often requires expert witnesses, such as medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, or economists. Lawyers have access to these resources, which can significantly strengthen the case and increase the claim’s value.
For instance, a medical expert can provide testimony about the long-term effects of an injury, while an economist can project lost future earnings. These expert analyses provide evidence that insurance companies must account for, resulting in much higher settlements.
Higher Settlements Through Litigation
Most personal injury claims are settled before trial, but if an insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, a lawyer can take the case to court. The mere threat of litigation often compels insurance companies to settle for a higher amount, knowing that a jury trial could result in an even greater award for the claimant.
John J. Malm, a top-rated Illinois personal injury attorney, emphasizes the importance of legal representation when it comes to maximizing compensation: “Insurance companies are focused on their bottom line and often try to minimize payouts. Claimants who don’t have a lawyer are at a significant disadvantage. An experienced attorney knows how to push back and ensure that their client gets the full compensation they deserve—often much more than they would get on their own.”
No Upfront Costs
One reason people may hesitate to hire a lawyer is the perceived cost. However, most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they don’t get paid unless they win the case or secure a settlement. This allows injured claimants to benefit from legal expertise without upfront costs and reduces the financial risk of pursuing a claim.
Why You Should Hire John J. Malm & Associates For Your Personal Injury Case
Hiring a lawyer for an injury claim often leads to a much higher settlement, thanks to the attorney’s ability to accurately value the claim, negotiate with insurers, and access expert resources. Insurers are more likely to offer fair compensation when a lawyer is involved, and the experience of an attorney often results in substantially higher recoveries for the claimant. For anyone who has suffered an injury, legal representation is critical in ensuring they receive the full compensation they deserve, far exceeding what they would likely achieve on their own.
If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident resulting in an injury, serious injury, or death, contact the personal injury accident lawyers at the Law Firm of John J. Malm & Associates for more information about how you may be entitled to receive legal compensation for your injuries or losses.