Salem, WV Personal Injury Lawyer

Why Hiring an Attorney Can Get You a Better Outcome

While it may seem straightforward to handle a personal injury case like a car accident or slip-and-fall on your own, the reality is that calling an attorney can significantly improve your outcome. 

Not knowing your rights and how much compensation you are entitled to can leave you walking away with less than you deserve. Remember – the insurance company is not working for you, they are working for themselves. However, victims can often recover more than expected with the proper legal representation. A skilled injury attorney in Salem will evaluate your circumstances and medical records to determine how much your case is actually worth. 

Here are just a few cases we can help with, but the list is not exhaustive. We’ve helped countless clients dealing with the aftermath of slip and falls, vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, and other forms of negligence.

Car Accidents

After a car accident, a personal injury attorney can be your strongest advocate. They will handle all communications with insurance companies to protect you from their deceptive tactics. They can also identify all potential sources of compensation, including uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. 

Assault Cases

In cases of assault, battery, or other intentional harm, a personal injury attorney can be a valuable ally. While criminal charges are typically the first step, a personal injury claim can help you recover medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. An attorney knows this information and will help you with the process.

Defamation

Defamation is a personal injury claim in which someone starts a rumor or lies about you, harming your reputation. Having someone defame you can cause you to lose your job or standing in the community.

The emotional toll of a personal injury can be significant, even in cases that do not involve physical injury. Personal injury victims deal with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other serious effects. Our team is here to support you through these challenges and fight for the justice you deserve. 

Common Mistakes Made in A Personal Injury Case

After an injury, you may not be thinking clearly due to the pain you’ve suffered. It is easy to put off doing things that may become necessary if you decide to file a claim later. When you are injured, it is important to take proper steps to ensure that you are physically and emotionally okay. After that, it’s wise to focus on recovering compensation for your damages. Some of the most common mistakes personal injury victims make include:

Thinking You Can’t Afford a Lawyer

People often believe that hiring a lawyer is expensive. Most lawyers will work with you on a contingency fee (no fee until we win your case). Not paying upfront puts the client at ease because if a lawyer takes a case under this agreement, they will ensure they do everything they can to win the case. The law firm also handles the cost of acquiring evidence, reconstructing accident scenes, hiring expert witnesses, and more.

Thinking You Have to Go to Trial

Most people hesitate for fear that their case will automatically go to trial. However, a trial is a rare occurrence. Most cases settle. If your lawyer feels that you aren’t receiving fair settlement offers, then trial may be an option. But going to trial is never the goal.

Not Gathering Proof of Your Claims

During your initial consultation with your personal injury attorney in Salem, WV, you should bring all the essential information that may help your case. Information will include medical bills, a police report, paystubs, property damages, and proof of how long you may be out of work.

Not Filing Promptly

West Virginia’s statute of limitations is usually two years from the accident date and one year for a defamation case. There are some exceptions to this rule. If you miss the deadline, it will not matter how valid your case is or how much damage you’ve suffered due to someone else’s negligence.

Not Getting Medical Treatment

Immediately after an accident, visit a doctor. Even if you feel okay, it is essential to seek medical treatment. Some injuries, such as a concussion, whiplash, or spinal damage, may not be evident right away.  Suppose you have a defamation claim that’s caused you severe mental anguish. In that case, it’s wise to go to your primary care physician, who can recommend a psychiatrist or prescribe medicine to help treat your symptoms and build a track record of your damages. 

Posting on Social Media

Anything you post on social media becomes public knowledge and can be used against you by the defendants. You should never discuss details about the accident online. Posting pictures of you enjoying your life following an accident may also hurt your case. Limiting social media use altogether is advisable until your case gets settled.

Contact a Salem Personal Injury Attorney Today

At Miley Legal, our Salem, WV, personal injury attorneys will provide a free consultation and help get your claim moving in the right direction. Let our firm handle the legal battle while you focus on recovery. We handle personal injury cases throughout WV. Contact us today for a no-risk obligation to discuss your claims.