If you are submitting an insurance claim, it may seem like a straightforward process at first. Perhaps your claim only relates to property damage, or it feels like your injury was minor. Hiring an attorney may seem unnecessary.
However, the scope of an injury or damage to property often changes over time. Some injuries take time to develop, and some damage is not immediately apparent. Insurance companies understand this and will try to resolve your claim before you realize this and for as little money as possible. They don’t want a personal injury attorney involved because your claim may be worth more than you think.
Our experienced Maryland personal injury attorney can assist you with evaluating your claim and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
Why Hire an Attorney
The world insurance companies operate in is very different from how ordinary people go about their lives. Insurance companies’ main goal is to protect their client and pay out as little as possible on any claim. Because of this, they can be difficult to negotiate with. They may downplay the value of your injuries or damages and make you feel powerless.
A skilled personal injury attorney is used to this and knows how to deal with these companies. Personal injury attorneys regularly negotiate settlements with insurance companies and, as a result, are more aware of when an insurance adjuster is acting unfairly.
Attorneys are familiar with the practices and patterns of individual insurance companies and specific insurance adjusters. This can be invaluable industry insight that leads to you recouping a more equitable settlement. Because of this, a personal injury attorney will be able to evaluate the value of your case and provide you with an honest assessment of what you may be able to recover. If the insurance company does not want to act fairly, an attorney can help you file a lawsuit.
An Attorney Doesn’t Get Paid if You Don’t Get Paid
Most attorneys in Maryland who handle personal injury cases do so on a contingency arrangement. This means that if you do not settle or win your case, you are not responsible for attorneys’ fees. This also means an attorney is unlikely to take a case they do not believe has value. So, by hiring an attorney, you have someone on your side who understands the insurance world and is motivated to fight for the best recovery possible in a timely manner.
Speak With an Attorney
Dealing with insurance claims can be overwhelming and confusing. A personal injury attorney can help take this stress off your plate. But you need to act promptly. In Maryland, you have three years to sue on a claim, with some exceptions. In addition, if you have a claim against a government entity, you must follow special notice requirements, or you may lose your right to pursue your claim entirely. Our attorneys understand these rules and deal with these issues regularly. Contact our office today for a free consultation about your case.