If you have been injured in an accident in Lexington, you may be wondering what role a personal injury lawyer actually plays in your case. Some people think lawyers only step in for courtroom trials, while others believe attorneys simply file paperwork. The truth is that a lawyer does much more than either of those things.
From the moment you are injured until the resolution of your case, an attorney can guide you through Kentucky’s legal system, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Keep reading to learn more.
Investigating the Accident
One of the first things a personal injury lawyer does is to thoroughly investigate your accident. Whether you were injured in a car crash on New Circle Road, a slip and fall in a store, or a workplace accident, your lawyer will collect the evidence needed to build a strong case.
This process may include:
- Obtaining police reports or accident reports
- Gathering medical records and bills
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
- Collecting photos, videos, or surveillance footage of the scene
A well-documented case strengthens your position in negotiations and prepares your claim for trial if necessary.
Calculating Damages
Determining the value of your claim is another critical role of a personal injury lawyer. Many people underestimate their damages by only considering immediate medical bills. An attorney will look deeper, taking into account:
- Future medical expenses for ongoing care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
By calculating both economic and non-economic damages, your lawyer will ensure you do not settle for less than what your claim is truly worth.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts. After an accident, you may receive a quick settlement offer that seems tempting but does not reflect the full extent of your damages. A lawyer knows the tactics insurers use and can protect you from being pressured into accepting less than you deserve.
Your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance adjusters, prepare a demand package outlining your damages, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf. Having an attorney on your side can level the playing field and result in a significantly higher settlement.
Filing a Lawsuit and Representing You in Court
While many personal injury cases are resolved through settlement, some require litigation. If negotiations fail, your lawyer will file a lawsuit in the appropriate Kentucky court. This process involves:
- Drafting and filing the complaint
- Engaging in discovery, where both sides exchange evidence and take depositions
- Filing motions and attending hearings
- Representing you in a trial before a judge or jury, if necessary
In court, your attorney will present evidence, question witnesses, and make legal arguments to show why you are entitled to compensation. Even when a case does not go all the way to trial, their willingness to litigate can motivate insurance companies to make a fair settlement offer.
Types of Cases a Lexington Personal Injury Lawyer Handles
Personal injury law covers a wide range of accidents and injuries. In Lexington, common cases include:
- Car accidents on busy roads like I-75, New Circle Road, and Nicholasville Road
- Truck accidents, which are particularly serious due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles
- Motorcycle accidents, which often result in catastrophic injuries
- Slip and fall accidents in stores, restaurants, and public areas
- Workplace injuries, which sometimes overlap with workers’ compensation claims
- Medical malpractice, when a healthcare provider’s negligence causes harm
- Wrongful death, when a loved one is killed due to another’s negligence
Every type of case requires specialized knowledge, and a personal injury lawyer brings the skills and resources needed to pursue compensation effectively.
Why Hiring a Lawyer Can Make a Difference
Some accident victims consider handling their claim without an attorney, especially if the injuries seem minor. However, studies consistently show that injury victims represented by lawyers receive higher settlements than those who go it alone. Lawyers understand the nuances of Kentucky law, know how to negotiate with insurers, and are prepared to take cases to trial when needed.
By hiring a personal injury attorney, you increase your chances of a fair settlement and gain an advocate focused entirely on protecting your best interests.
Contact Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Lexington Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been hurt in an accident in Lexington, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Call Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers at (859) 413-3900 today for a free consultation. Our personal injury attorneys in Lexington are ready to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
