Should I Seek Legal Representation for My Bodily Injury Claim?
I was rear-ended in California and found not to be at fault. After visiting the doctor, I was diagnosed with whiplash. The insurance company’s initial settlement offer was $2,000. I ended up missing two days of work, as advised by my doctor. However, the insurance refuses to compensate for my missed workdays, claiming that as a private contractor, my absence was merely a lost opportunity.
I am still dealing with significant pain and plan to see my doctor again, as I suspect I might have a rotator cuff injury. Despite explaining my situation thoroughly to the insurance adjuster, I keep receiving the same response: “We believe this is a fair settlement unless you can provide additional documentation or support.”
I reached out to an attorney, who expressed interest in taking on my case. However, I am unsure if hiring them would be worth it. From what I’ve read, it seems that minor injuries like mine tend to result in small settlements regardless of legal representation. Am I being unreasonable to think that $2,000 is a low initial offer?
It’s understandable to feel that $2,000 is a low-ball offer, especially given your situation. Whiplash injuries can sometimes lead to long-term issues, and if you’re already experiencing severe pain and suspect a more serious injury like a rotator cuff issue, it might be worth pursuing further compensation. Here are some points to consider when deciding whether to hire an attorney:
Assessment of Damages: An attorney can help you assess your damages more accurately, including medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Since you’ve already missed work and may continue to do so, they can argue for compensation beyond what the insurance company initially offered.
Negotiation Experience: Attorneys often have experience negotiating with insurance companies and may be able to secure a better settlement than you could on your own, especially if they can provide documentation of your injuries and their impact on your life.
Contingency Fees: Many personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This can make it more manageable financially since you won’t have upfront costs.
Understanding of Your Rights: An attorney can help ensure that you are not taken advantage of in the negotiation process and that your rights are protected throughout.
Potential for Increased Compensation: While small injuries might yield smaller settlements, if your condition worsens or additional treatment is needed, having an attorney can be beneficial in securing fair compensation.
Ultimately, it may be worth consulting with the attorney again to discuss your concerns and the potential for a higher settlement, considering your ongoing pain and the impact of your injuries on your daily life. Getting a professional opinion can help you make an informed decision.