Menu
https://pickfordlawfirm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/call.svg Call
https://pickfordlawfirm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/mail.svg Contact

When to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer after an Accident in Memphis, TN

when to hire a personal injury lawyer

Accidents can turn your life upside down in an instant. Whether it’s a car crash or slip and fall, you’re likely facing medical bills, lost wages, and a lot of stress. It’s a tough situation, but you don’t have to face it alone. Here’s a straightforward guide on when hiring a personal injury lawyer isn’t just helpful but crucial for protecting your rights and getting fair compensation.

1. Your Injuries Are Serious

If you’ve suffered severe injuries, you need a lawyer. Period. Here’s why:

  • Serious injuries often mean big medical bills, both now and in the future
  • You might be facing long-term or permanent disability
  • Your ability to work and earn a living could be affected
  • There’s a real impact on your quality of life

A skilled personal injury lawyer will fight to make sure you’re compensated for all of these factors, not just your immediate medical expenses.

2. The Other Party Is Denying Fault

Sometimes, it’s not clear who’s at fault in an accident. Other times, the responsible party might flat-out deny they did anything wrong. This is where things get tricky. You need someone who can:

  • Gather solid evidence to support your claim
  • Interview witnesses effectively
  • Work with accident reconstruction experts if necessary

An experienced attorney has the resources and know-how to build a strong case on your behalf.

3. You’re Dealing with Bad Faith Insurance Company Tactics

Let’s be frank: insurance companies are in the business of making money, not friends. Their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They might:

  • Offer a quick, lowball settlement hoping you’ll take it out of desperation
  • Try to downplay how badly you’re hurt
  • Argue that your injuries were pre-existing
  • Drag out the process, hoping you’ll give up

A good lawyer knows these tricks and how to counter them. They’ll handle all the communication with the insurance company, so you don’t accidentally say something that could hurt your case.

4. Your Case Involves Complex Legal or Medical Issues

Some personal injury cases are straightforward. Others, not so much. If your case involves things like:

  • Medical malpractice
  • Product liability
  • Toxic exposure

You’re dealing with complex legal and medical issues. These cases often require expert witnesses and specialized knowledge. A personal injury attorney can bring in the right experts to strengthen your case and explain complicated concepts in a way that judges and juries can understand.

5. You’re Running Out of Time

In Tennessee, you usually have only one year from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim. This might seem like a long time, but it flies by when you’re dealing with injuries and recovery. If you’re getting close to this deadline, you need to talk to a lawyer ASAP. They can make sure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

6. You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

Dealing with a serious injury is stressful enough without having to navigate the legal system on top of it. If you’re feeling swamped by medical appointments, insurance paperwork, and financial worries, a personal injury lawyer can take a lot of that burden off your shoulders. They’ll handle the legal stuff, so you can focus on getting better.

7. The Other Side Has Lawyered Up

If the person or company responsible for your injuries has hired a lawyer, you need to level the playing field. Their attorney will be working hard to minimize their client’s liability and your compensation. You need someone in your corner with equal skill and determination to protect your interests.

8. You’re Not Sure What Your Case Is Worth

Many people underestimate the true value of their personal injury claim. A lawyer can provide a realistic assessment based on:

  • The full extent of your injuries
  • Your long-term prognosis and future medical needs
  • How the injury has impacted your ability to work
  • Non-economic damages like pain and suffering

This expertise is crucial in making sure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

9. You Need Peace of Mind

Perhaps the most valuable benefit of hiring a personal injury lawyer is peace of mind. Knowing that a skilled professional is advocating for your rights allows you to focus on what’s most important – your health and recovery.

Don’t Go It Alone

Remember, the insurance company has a team of lawyers working to protect their interests. You deserve someone just as dedicated on your side. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t face this challenge alone.

At Pickford Law in Memphis, we understand what you’re going through. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and help you get the compensation you need to move forward. We offer free consultations, so you can get advice on your case without any obligation.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today, and let’s get you on the path to justice and recovery.

Author Bio

Shalondra Grandberry Pickford

Shalondra Grandberry Pickford is a highly skilled attorney and the founder of Pickford Law. Her legal practice is committed to representing clients on various legal matters, including social security disability, veterans’ disability, estate planning, and personal injury. With over ten years of experience in law and a license to practice in Tennessee and Arkansas, Shalondra is committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation to each client.

Shalondra received her Juris Doctorate from The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law and is a member of the Tennessee and Arkansas State Bar Associations. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including the exclusive Rising Stars award from Super Lawyers in 2017 and again in 2022.

LinkedIn | State Bar Association | Avvo | Google