Accidents happen. Some accidents result in injury. Some injuries require medical attention. When an injury is minor, medical care may be covered by insurance. If the amount offered is sufficient to handle your damages, there is no need to seek additional compensation through legal action.
When insurance fails to acknowledge the severity of an injury, it is a good idea to talk to a personal injury lawyer. Taking an offer from insurance will prevent you from filing suit at a later date. If you suspect you are being low-balled or cheated out of a fair settlement, talking to an attorney is the best way to determine how to move forward.
Catastrophic Personal Injury
Typically, a personal injury attorney is needed when an injury is severe. This includes catastrophic injuries such as:
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Burn Injury
- Amputation
It may also include broken bones, soft tissue injury, organ damage, and any other injury that results in medical expenses, an inability to work, and personal pain and suffering.
It is a good idea to contact a personal injury lawyer quickly after an accident. The investigative process can become more complex as time passes. You have five years to take action in Missouri, but only two in Illinois. It is best to take swift action regardless of this timeframe to help secure the best outcome.
How Long Will it Take?
Some personal injury claims are settled within a few months, others may take up to a year. If your case requires a jury trial, it may take even longer.
Most cases settle long before a trial is needed. Studies suggest around 95% of all personal injury claims settle within 11 months, before the case goes to trial. However, we prepare every case for the eventuality of a trial to make sure we are providing the most thorough representation.
If you need a personal injury lawyer, please call our Missouri office at 314-333-3333 or our Illinois office at 618-888-8888 to schedule a free consultation. We serve victims of serious injury living throughout the St. Louis Metro area.