Before someone hires an auto accident lawyer in Gig Harbor, this person probably wants to know the general success rate of attorneys who work to achieve reasonable compensation for their clients. Hiring a lawyer does indeed tend to make a significant difference in the amount of money an insurance company offers for a settlement. An injured person may be able to do some negotiating without professional legal representation, but it can be difficult for an individual to convince an insurer to pay more than the original offer.
There is actually an ongoing trend for lower settlement amounts and a reduced number of settlements and court awards. However, that is not happening because an auto accident lawyer in Gig Harbor finds it harder now to negotiate with insurance companies. Instead, it’s because vehicle manufacturers are increasingly able to use the latest technology that makes cars and pickup trucks safer than ever before. This trend has been occurring for decades, in fact. Accident lawyers once were accustomed to having clients of relatively minor collisions suffering broken bones, concussions and other serious injuries. Now, with airbags and other safety technology, people come through many accidents nearly unscathed. In addition, the wearing of seat belts has become completely routine for most people in vehicles now. Decades ago, especially before more stringent laws were passed on the issue, many individuals never bothered to put those belts on.
Even with significantly safer cars and trucks, certain types of collisions still are likely to cause injury. Being struck from behind leaves people in the vehicle at risk of whiplash, for example. In many cases, legal representation becomes necessary because the insurer may be skeptical of the person’s claim. Whiplash symptoms may not appear for several days after the accident, leading insurers to disbelieve an injury actually occurred since it was not reported immediately. Accident attorneys know which types of medical documentation and diagnostic verifications are necessary to overcome insurance company objections. If the insurer demands an additional physical examination from a different physician, the attorney can guide the client through that process as well. Visit Otto Law Offices for assistance.
