Bakersfield is a vibrant city known for its industrial and agricultural hubs. Moreover, Kern County is one of the highest oil-producing counties in the state. Given the concentration of workers and families in the region, injuries are likely to occur for various reasons. If you or a family member have been hurt, consider hiring a Bakersfield, CA, injury lawyer to guide you. This is because the restitution process is complex and layered with paperwork.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer will help ensure you receive compensation for any medical expenses and property damages you suffered due to an accident. You should contact legal help right after you leave the hospital’s emergency room so an investigation into the accident can be conducted while evidence is still available.
The negligent party’s insurance company will typically have an advantage with a lot of money and legal resources. You want to be sure you have the same advantages as an experienced personal injury lawyer who understands how these insurance companies operate. The other party’s insurance company will want to protect their interests, so you need legal counsel who will defend yours and fight for the compensation you deserve.
A Lawyer Will Help You Get the Right Medical Attention
You will want to meet with the right physicians to receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. A personal injury lawyer is knowledgeable about the laws in your state and will help you choose the right medical experts that can treat you and serve as good witnesses should your case go to trial.
After suffering injuries in an accident, you are going to need medical professionals treating you that will not only make sure you heal properly but who can testify in court regarding how the injury has changed your quality of life. The evidence these professionals can provide will help you and your lawyer seek maximum compensation.
When is a Lawyer Needed?
A personal injury case is when one suffers injuries due to a negligent act by others. These negligent acts can result in the following:
- Accidents caused by aviation
- Automobile accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Mass transportation accidents
- Boating accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Negligent security
- Animal attacks or bites
- Slip and Fall accidents
- Nursing home abuse or neglect
- Construction accidents
- Medical malpractice
A personal injury lawyer has the experience and knowledge of your state’s laws and can provide the legal representation needed to seek maximum compensation for accident victims.
How Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Help Obtain Compensation for Your Injury or Loss
As a plaintiff in a personal injury case, you should be entitled to compensation for injuries or damages. This compensation should include the following:
- Loss of income due to your injuries
- Medical expenses
- Loss of earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Loss of companionship
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
How the personal injury lawyer will work to obtain the maximum compensation for you depends on the specifics of your case. Some of what the lawyer will do to benefit your case include:
- Gather evidence to support your claim
This may include obtaining police reports or finding witnesses and getting their statements. Evidence may also include taking photos of the accident scene or damages caused by the accident. Evidence can also include obtaining your medical reports, bills, employment documents, or other documents to help establish your right to compensation.
- Negotiate with insurance companies
Not everyone has superior negotiation skills. Personal injury lawyers are experienced in how to negotiate with insurance companies. They will review the policy details and learn the maximum compensation level and how it applies to your case. The personal injury lawyer will also handle all insurance company communication so you do not mistakenly jeopardize your case.
- Send Demand Letters
Demand letters list the facts of the incident and demand specific compensation for your injuries or losses.
- Prepare pleadings
If the insurance company does not agree to the compensation amount, your case must go to court. The personal injury lawyer must then prepare a complaint or plead to the courts, including the legal arguments to support your case.
- Conduct Discovery
Conducting discovery includes sending interrogatories to the defendant seeking certain information.
- Represent you at trial
A personal injury lawyer will provide excellent legal representation if the case goes to trial. A personal injury lawyer is needed for your case if you want to receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Insurance companies have access to expert legal counsel; you need the exact representation to protect your future and rights.