Siegel and Doyle, L.L.C.
Personal Injury Litigation – Frequently Asked Questions



The information below is designed to answer common questions about personal injury claims and
Siegel and Doyle, LLC . If you would like more information, please contact us.

Why should I contact a personal injury attorney?
What is the amount of compensation based on?
What do I do if an insurance adjuster offers me a settlement?
Can't I just estimate the cost of my own injuries right away?
If I make a claim, will I have to spend a lot of time in court?
When should I call an attorney?

 


Why should I contact a personal injury attorney?
Medical problems caused by personal injury may not be fully recognized for months or even years after an accident. Losses from medical bills, decreased earning potential, and many other problems can pile up unexpectedly. An attorney with experience representing personal injury victims and negotiating with insurance companies can analyze your case and determine fair compensation for your losses.

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What is the amount of compensation based on?
Compensation for your injuries depends on several factors, including physical and mental pain and suffering, economic hardship or financial loss, decreased earning potential, and physical impairment and/or disfigurement.

The details of the case, such as the extent of your injuries, the effect of injuries on your life, the amount and length of medical treatment, and the outcomes of similar cases all play a role in determining the amount awarded.

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What do I do if an insurance adjuster offers me a settlement?
Before accepting a settlement, it is always in your best interest to consult an attorney. Adjusters work for the insurance company - not for you - and their job is to settle your claim for the lowest possible expense to the company.

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Can't I just estimate the cost of my own injuries right away?
Because the full extent of many injuries may not be known for quite some time after the accident, an attorney can help you to evaluate your potential losses. It's devastating to sign away your rights only to later discover that your injuries and losses were worse than you originally thought.

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If I make a claim, will I have to spend a lot of time in court?
Many injury claims can be settled through negotiation, mediation or arbitration, without you having to go to court. However, some complex cases may require that you participate in legal proceedings.

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When should I call an attorney?
You should consult an attorney as soon as possible after being injured. In most cases there are time limits for filing claims after an injury occurs, and if this deadline passes, your claim could be dismissed. In addition, finding witnesses and gathering evidence to support your case becomes more difficult the longer you wait.

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