The key in ensuring you receive full and fair compensation for your injury is by not only talking to a medical professional, but also a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer. Neck injury cases are often catastrophic and can be more complex and drawn-out.
You shouldn’t have to pay for the injury costs from an accident you didn’t cause. If you or a loved one were injured, you might be eligible to receive compensation. A Macon neck injury attorney from John Foy & Associates can help you look into the cause of your accident and hold the negligent parties liable.
Why You Need a Reputable Lawyer to Help With Your Neck Injury Claim
Having a lawyer on your side can make all the difference, but working with the right type of legal team is crucial. Look for someone who has experience with neck injury cases. Also, consider:
- Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends or family
- The lawyer’s fee structure
- How you feel when talking to the lawyer
- The lawyer’s background related to your case
You can learn a lot by scheduling a consultation call. Most law firms offer a free case review for you where you can ask questions and decide if you want to move forward. They will then work for you on a contingency fee, so you don’t pay anything unless your lawyer wins your case.
Overall, you should feel confident that your attorney can handle your case. Their goal should be winning you the fullest compensation possible.
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You Need the Right Medical Treatment for Your Neck Injury
Obtaining a proper diagnosis of a neck injury is critical and this usually requires an MRI or CT Scan because X-rays do not reveal nerve damage. A Macon neck injury attorney will make sure your pain is properly diagnosed to protect your claim.
Individuals suffering from neck injuries usually require pain management treatment to control their symptoms. This may include medication, physical therapy, steroid injections, or spinal cord stimulators. Whether you need surgery, pain management, or both, an experienced attorney will work to get you the best possible medical treatment available under the law.
Getting a Fair Settlement for Your Neck Injury in Macon
Everyone in Macon has a duty of care. If someone’s careless actions cause an injury, that person is liable. They might be responsible for the injured person’s costs. As a neck injury victim, you can seek compensation for what you’ve lost.
According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated §51-1-6, you have a right to recover damages. Your damages might include:
- Treatment costs
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Future medical costs
- Pain and suffering
A fair settlement should cover all the costs of your injuries. But getting proper compensation takes a Macon neck injury lawyer’s experience negotiating with insurance companies and collecting enough evidence.
Proving Your Damages
Your personal injury claim should include proof of your damages. After the accident, think about ways to document your costs and losses. Make sure to save things like:
- Medical bills
- Receipts
- Doctor notes
- Pictures of your injuries
- Photos of vehicle damage
- Car repair quotes
You’ll also want to get copies of your medical records and the police report from your accident.
According to MedlinePlus, neck injuries can include any part of your neck, from your bones to your nerves. Whiplash is a common neck injury from accidents, but it’s hard to prove.
After your accident, see a doctor as soon as possible. This will create a record of you getting treatment. A medical professional can also check for all signs of injury. Any documentation of your injuries will help your legal rights.
Dealing With the Insurance Companies
The responsible party might have insurance to cover injuries like yours. For example, all drivers should carry auto insurance. If a driver causes an accident in Macon, Georgia that driver’s insurer should pay for the costs.
Regrettably, insurance companies are not on your side. When you file a claim, the insurer will look for excuses to pay you less. You’ll likely need to negotiate for the settlement you deserve.
You need an attorney who doesn’t back down from insurance tactics and will handle all communication with the insurer for you.
The Timeline for Your Personal Injury Case May Be Running Out
Every situation is different, but most personal injury cases settle within a few months to a year. That might seem like a long time, but it can be worth it. You could recover many of the costs you’re facing because of the accident.
Keep in mind that settling sooner is not beneficial. While you get your payment faster, you might be receiving a much lower settlement than your actual costs. Taking time to fight for more is usually better in the long run.
Waiting Until You Heal
It’s best to wait until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). That’s the point at which you cannot recover further with treatment. If you accept money before reaching MMI, you might leave out crucial treatment costs.
The Negotiation Process
When you hire a neck injury lawyer in Macon, they will investigate all the details of your accident. They’ll prepare and send a demand package to the insurance company. Then, the negotiation typically begins.
The insurance adjuster will look for ways to undervalue your claim, but your lawyer will work to negotiate an offer that makes sense for you. Most accident claims end here. However, if the insurer won’t settle, you can take your case further.
Filing a Lawsuit
You might decide to take your case to court. Your Macon neck injury attorney would file a complaint that begins the lawsuit process. During litigation, you’ll go through a discovery period and have hearings. You’ll also have chances to settle during this stage.
Going to Trial
The last step is the trial. Both sides will present evidence, and you’ll seek compensation. A judge or jury will decide if you’ll receive the financial recovery you need.
Going to trial is risky and expensive. Your personal injury attorney will help you weigh the pros and cons. If you have a solid case, it might be worth it. However, most victims seek compensation through an insurance claim.
Keep in mind the state of Georgia has a statute of limitations, meaning you must bring a case within two years of the accident date. Missing that deadline will likely bar you from recovering anything, so don’t wait to contact an attorney to get started today.
What a Macon Neck Injury Lawyer Can Do for You
While you focus your attention on recovering, your neck injury lawyer in Macon can fight for your rights and secure you fair compensation by:
- Determining the specifics of your injury was caused, what transpired during the accident, and who is liable
- Starting the insurance claim process with the at-fault party’s insurer
- Preparing your defense if you’re at all liable for the accident
- Calculating the value of your case
- Negotiating a higher settlement amount
- Handle all communications and paperwork on your behalf
- Taking your case to court if the insurance company will not cooperate
Get a Free Consultation With a Macon Neck Injury Lawyer Today
Don’t wait to get started on your case. At John Foy & Associates, our Macon neck injury lawyers can help you file a claim to recover your injury costs. With a founder known as the “Strong Arm,” we’re not afraid to fight for your rights. We bring 20-plus years of hands-on experience to each case. Call us or contact us online for a free, no-risk consultation today.
478-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form