If never involved in a legal case before, it helps to know what to expect. These are the steps a catastrophic injury attorney will take to help an injured individual get back on track as best as possible.
Free Consultation
In the majority of injury cases, a catastrophic injury attorney will offer a free consultation to assess the case at hand and determine if the victim is eligible for damages. Most are quite unsure of what damages they can claim, so setting up the free consult to speak with a professional is a smart first step.
Secure Representation
As soon as the consultation has taken place, it's up to the individual whether or not they secure a catastrophic injury attorney or not. The sooner the better when it comes to deciding, this way any mistakes within the claim process can be more easily avoided.
For example, insurance companies should not contact the victim directly - most don't know that. Sadly, they tend to force a bunch of questions on a car accident victim and record the answers. These answers can be used against the individual. That's why it's best to let the lawyer deal with the company instead; they'll know what to say to keep your best interests safe.
Putting Together the Case
There will need to be plenty of evidence collected to support the case to make it a strong one. Be sure to share everything possible with the catastrophic injury attorney that's been hired. There is a lawyer-to-client relationship that states any communication between the two parties is protected. They just need every bit of information to build the case; this includes all facts and documentation relating that can help build and argument for the victim.
Medical Exams
The worse the injury, the more the insurance company must compensate. A catastrophic injury attorney typically suggests a medical evaluation to get in writing the extent of the injuries suffered from a car or other type of accident. They will also assist in finding a rehab center that specializes in the type of injury to ensure the best care is given.
They know which facilities are updated on rules and regulations as far as those injured in an accident so there is no headache when it comes to having claims approved. Anyone who prefers to can request with the attorney to see their family doctor or specialist of their choice; in this case all that's needed is a referral. This helps the injured party heal faster and be compensated as needed.
Mandatory Mediation
The attorney will have to go through a mandatory mediation in which they put together a brief that describes the injuries and what the victim is entitled to as far as benefits. This brief is sent to the insurance company, and then the mediation usually happens over a joint phone call between the adjustor, lawyer and insurance company representative. All one has to do during this event is be available for consultation.
They should have determined whether or not the claim is a Tort claim. What this means is that the other driver or party involved caused the accident. They will take into consideration if there was a liability policy involved, which is one that comes from the victims own insurance company and provides them benefits. In some cases, the catastrophic injury attorney may have to mediate the Tort claim as well.
If a settlement is reached, a check will be sent to the attorney's office and the case will be closed. If not, the case will move forward.
Filing a Claim or Law Suit
If the mandatory mediation doesn't go as planned in regards to the benefits claim, then the lawyer will choose if a law suit should be filed. It has to be within two years of the date of the accident.
Disclosure of Evidence
The next step involves both parties and their representation to share evidence with each other in an arranged meeting. This is where questions are answered under oath and settlement is typically reached. The victim's attorney will coach them on how to answer.
Based in San Diego, California Justice Law Group was founded with the idea that everyone should have access to competent representation and justice. Expect personalized service from start to finish no matter how big or small your case is. This is due to their efforts to keep their workloads manageable at all times. Your life, well-being and family come first for Justice Law Group, and they will do everything in their professional power to help you with personal or financial problems of all kinds. Individuals, groups and even government entities are welcome to visit the group and enjoy a free consultation to see how they can bring you success for your case. To learn more, go to http://justice-lawgroup.com/.
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