Personal Injury legal guide.

Should I talk to the insurance company before hiring a lawyer?

Be very cautious. The insurance adjuster's job is to minimize what the company pays. They may ask for a recorded statement or have you sign medical releases that give them access to your entire history. Many attorneys advise against giving recorded statements without legal counsel present. Anything you say can be used to reduce or deny your claim.

How do personal injury lawyers get paid?

Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning the fee is often a percentage of any recovery. Fees and case costs vary by firm, so ask how expenses are handled before you hire an attorney.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?

Every state has a statute of limitations — typically 2-6 years depending on the state and type of case. But waiting is risky. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and surveillance footage gets overwritten. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

What is my case worth?

No ethical attorney can guarantee a specific amount, but they can estimate based on your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impact on your life. Serious injuries with ongoing treatment and permanent effects are worth more than minor injuries with quick recoveries. An attorney evaluates the full picture — not just current bills.

Should I accept the insurance company's first offer?

Almost never. First offers are typically far below what a claim is worth. Insurance companies make low initial offers hoping you'll accept before understanding the full extent of your injuries and damages. Once you sign a release, you can't go back for more — even if your injuries turn out to be worse than expected.

What if I was partly at fault for the accident?

In most states, you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. The rules vary — some states reduce your recovery by your percentage of fault, while others bar recovery if you were more than 50% or 51% at fault. A few states bar any recovery if you're at fault at all. An attorney can explain how your state's rules apply.

Do most personal injury cases go to trial?

No — roughly 95% of personal injury cases settle before trial. However, having an attorney who is willing and prepared to go to trial typically results in better settlement offers. Insurance companies know which attorneys will take cases to court and which won't.

What should I do right after an accident?

Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine — some injuries don't show symptoms right away. Document everything: photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage. Get contact information from witnesses. File a police report. Don't post about the accident on social media. And don't sign anything from the insurance company before talking to a lawyer.