Should I Consider Hiring an Attorney for My Bodily Injury Case?
I was rear-ended in California and found to be not at fault. After visiting a doctor, I was diagnosed with whiplash. The insurance company’s initial settlement offer was only $2,000. Due to my injury, I had to miss two days of work, but the insurance won’t compensate me for that since I’m a private contractor; they consider my lost work as just a missed opportunity.
I’m still in significant pain and plan to see my doctor again to investigate a potential rotator cuff injury. I’ve shared this information with the insurance adjuster, but I keep receiving the same reply: “We believe this is a fair settlement unless you can provide additional documentation or support.”
I’ve spoken with an attorney, who wants to take on my case, but I’m uncertain about whether it’s worth it. I’ve read that for smaller injuries like mine, the settlements tend to be modest regardless of whether an attorney is involved. Am I being unreasonable in thinking that $2,000 is a lowball offer?
It sounds like you’re going through a challenging situation, and it’s completely understandable to seek guidance on whether to hire an attorney. Given that you were rear-ended and diagnosed with whiplash, experiencing ongoing pain, and now possibly facing a rotator cuff injury, it’s important to ensure that your claim is handled properly.
Here’s a breakdown of your situation:
Settlement Offer: $2,000 may indeed feel like a lowball offer, especially considering your medical condition, missed work, and potential ongoing treatments. It’s important to consider not just the immediate costs but also any long-term effects on your quality of life.
Missed Work: Since you’re a private contractor, insurance companies often undervalue lost income due to the lack of conventional pay stubs. However, if you can demonstrate how that missed work affects your earnings, it’s worth pushing back on their decision.
Medical Documentation: Continuing to gather medical documentation is crucial. If your injuries persist and you require further treatment, this could substantially affect the overall value of your claim.
Hiring an Attorney: An attorney specializing in personal injury can help you navigate the complexities of your case, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure you’re being compensated fairly for all your expenses, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. They may also have experience with similar cases and can provide a clearer picture of potential settlements.
Case Evaluation: It’s worth having a frank discussion with the attorney about the likelihood of getting a better settlement versus the cost of their services. Many personal injury attorneys work on contingency, which means they only get paid if you win your case.
In conclusion, if you feel that you deserve more than the current offer and you’re facing ongoing pain, hiring an attorney might be a wise choice. They can provide you the expertise and support necessary to ensure your rights are protected and that you’re compensated fairly for your injuries. It’s better to have professional help, especially if negotiations with the insurance company are proving challenging.