2. Could I handle my case on my own without an attorney?

This is an intelligent question, one that many people have. There are several advantages that an attorney can offer you if you have been in an accident.
First, you can be set up with medical treatment without any medical insurance, which is very difficult to do without a lawyer.
Second, the attorney will understand the intricacies of insurance law, and will know the best way to set up your medical care. For example, we can advise you when it makes sense to use your health insurance, your medical payment coverage, or when it is better to simply work with a doctor on a lien.
Third, if you use an attorney it will save you time and stress. It is difficult to work with an adjuster, prepare settlement packages, and negotiate when it isn't your daily business. We have been doing this for many years and know what is fair compensation on your case.
Fourth, we can frequently discount medical bills, subrogation liens, and other insurance liens, and put a much larger amount in your pocket. This is extremely difficult to do for a non-lawyer to do.

 

3. What Compensation am I entitled to?

You are entitled to pain and suffering, lost wages, economic loss, medical bills, loss of consortium (in marriage cases), prospective future medical expenses, and various other types of damages. Before we ever even begin negotiating your case for settlement we sit down with you and review all aspects of what has occurred to you as a result of the accident. We then come to a joint decision about what to ask for. You will have the chance to discuss personally with Mr. Sidell all issues that arisen in your life that are a result of the accident.

 

4. Is it better to settle or go to Court?

This is a difficult issue that must be examined for each case. The decision depends on what has been offered by the insurance company, and what your personal needs are.
Some people are perfectly willing to wait for years to go through the litigation process. Other people would rather resolve the dispute immediately, and avoid the stress of court.  We make every effort through excellent documentation of your problems to resolve the matter prior to court.
We believe a peaceful, negotiated settlement is the preferable choice leading to greater peace of mind, and better economic results for many people. The real issue for the client to consider is not what the total settlement is, but rather what the net amount is paid to the client when the case settles. What good is it if you spend years in court and then end up with a lower amount after subtraction of court expenses and higher attorney fees? These are issues we always discuss with our clients so they can make an informed decision about the best course of action to take.

 

5. Do I have to come up with any money?

Once we have decided to accept your case , you'll not be asked to come up with any other money in most cases. We will advance monies necessary to properly handle your case.

 

6. Will my insurance rates go up if I make an injury claim?

People frequently ask me whether their own insurance rates will go up as a result of making a personal injury claim. The answer is that if the accident is not your fault most companies will not raise your rates significantly as a result of your claim. Naturally, we always attempt to seek all monies from the company that represents the person who caused accident. One exception is that we normally will seek to utilize your medical payment coverage under own policy. This because it is substantially more beneficial to you to do so. Although every company is different, we have been advised that if the accident was not or fault the effect on your insurance premium should be minimal.