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Only you can decide if it is worth getting a lawyer for a car accident. However, a lawyer offers many benefits, not the least of which is assuming your legal responsibilities so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries and rebuilding your life. This article will explain more about how lawsuits work and how an attorney can help you at every point of the process.
Motorcycle Accidents Occur Even When Motorcyclists Remain Cautious
Owning and driving a motorcycle is a big responsibility. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) published a motorcyclist handbook filled with rules, regulations, and advice about staying safe on the road. This includes everything from what to wear when riding a motorcycle to how to avoid potential hazards.
However, motorcycle accidents can still happen, no matter how careful a motorcyclist is. According to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, in 2018, motorcycles were involved in 3,566 accidents in North Carolina, with most accidents resulting in an injury. In South Carolina, about 18.2 percent of all motor vehicle accident deaths in 2016 were motorcyclist deaths. That year, South Carolina had 187 motorcyclist fatalities.
A Lawyer May Help You Pursue Compensation After an Accident
So, what can you do after getting injured in an accident with a car? One option might be to sue for compensatory damages. This money can make your life easier by covering your bills, lost wages, and other financial losses you experienced.
Economic damage awards may lessen the financial impact of your accident. Your Rutherfordton motorcycle crash lawyer may help you fight for compensation for the following damages:
- Loss of wages and benefits
- Loss of employment
- Diminished earning capacity
- Medical expenses
- Repair expenses
- Funeral expenses
Funeral expenses only apply if you are filing a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of a loved one who passed away because of the crash. Most of the other economic damages listed above may apply in both personal injury and wrongful death cases.
In addition to compensation for financial losses, you may seek compensation for physical or mental injuries. These are called noneconomic damages, and they may be paid to claimants who experience:
- Pain and suffering
- Diminished quality of life
- Disfigurement
- Disability
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of society or companionship
As with funeral expenses, loss of society or companionship is specific to wrongful death cases. It refers to the fact that your loved one is no longer here to support you, express affection, and provide comfort and guidance.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 828.286.3866
It May Be Worth Hiring a Lawyer to Build Your Personal Injury Case
If you are conflicted about hiring a motorcycle wreck lawyer or filing a lawsuit, that is understandable. The legal process can be drawn out and complex, and you may be concerned about how much a lawyer might cost you. Here is what you should know about how a lawyer can help your case without hurting your finances.
A Lawyer Can Investigate Your Case
It is important to know as much about your accident and injuries as possible. A lawyer may conduct an investigation into the causes and consequences of your crash. This might include visiting the scene, locating witnesses, or finding the important documented evidence, such as police reports and other records.
The results of this investigation might help you in several ways. The evidence you discover might tell you who is responsible for your accident, which in turn might tell you who you can sue for compensation. Any discovered evidence may also be used to prove that the accident and your injuries happened exactly as you said, which can support your claim against the at-fault party.
A Lawyer Can Negotiate on Your Behalf
To get a settlement, your side will need to confer with the liable party’s insurance company. If you hire a lawyer, they can handle these necessary communications for you. If you choose, your attorney may negotiate on your behalf for a settlement.
Unfortunately, in some cases, the insurance company refuses to pay what the plaintiff demands as compensation. If all involved parties cannot agree to a settlement, your lawyer may schedule a trial to continue your pursuit of compensation. At the trial, they may examine witnesses and argue before a judge and jury.
Many Lawyers Work on a Contingency-Fee-Basis
Many lawyers charge you no attorney’s fees upfront and only collect their fee once you receive compensation. This is called a contingency fee. This may save you the worry of figuring out how to afford a lawyer. If your lawyer cannot get you any compensation, you do not have to pay them any attorney fee.
If you are still on the fence about whether it is worth getting a lawyer for a car wreck, call Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, at (828) 286-3866. Our motorcycle accident lawyer can tell you more about our services and evaluate your case for free.
