Top Ten Most Asked Questions
1. How Much Is This Going to Cost Me?
We handle all accident or injury cases on a "contingency fee" basis. In simple terms, we don't get paid unless we win! Basically, we get no fees unless and until you actually receive money from a settlement. When and if you do win an award, the law firm collects one-third of the settlement, plus costs. We advance all the legal fees and costs out of our own pocket up front, then collect them after the settlement is awarded. If there is no award, there is no fee.
2. Why Not Do It Myself and Keep It All?
Accident victims represented by attorneys receive an average of 90% higher settlements than those that don't – even after the attorney fees are deducted. At Goodwin & Scieszka, we know the intricate and ever-changing maze of personal injury law. We also dig out the hidden benefits in your own insurance policy, and recover little-known extras like household services or rehabilitation. Not to mention all the red-tape, hassle, and paperwork we eliminate.
3. Who Pays My Medical Bills?
Generally your own medical plan. If you are not covered, there are several options we can pursue, including your auto insurance carrier, and the responsible party's insurance company. Many doctors and therapists will wait until a settlement is reached to receive payment. We concentrate on tracking down the money so you can concentrate on getting better.
4. What If the Other Person Doesn't Have Insurance?
Don't give up! If the negligent party is working, our attorneys can garnish his wages, or put a levy on any assets he might own. In many cases, we are able to obtain compensation from your own insurance company through uninsured motorist protection laws.
5. What If the Other Person's Agent Calls Me?
Don't sign anything! In fact, don't even talk to any insurance adjustor -- including your own insurance carrier -- without talking to your attorney first to find out your rights. Insurance investigators can and will use anything you say against you if it saves them from paying out one extra penny. Remember, claims adjustors are trained to be very persuasive in getting you to sign a "standard release form" which surrenders your rights to compensation.
6. If It's the Other Person's Fault, Why Don't I Just Put in a Claim?
Being innocent doesn't mean you'll get paid. Every insurance company has their own lawyers who represent them against you. How much you collect – if anything -- depends on whether or not you have a good lawyer on your side. The lawyers and adjustors working for the insurance companies are paid to give you little or nothing in return for your years of paying premiums. Of course, never sign any documents or endorse any checks unless an attorney sees it.
7. Will I Have to Go to Trial?
Probably not. About 95% of all our claims are now settled out of court. Any and all offers from defense attorneys or the insurance companies will be relayed to you for your approval. We'll make recommendations, but the final decision to accept or reject any offer is always up to you. You decide when to settle and when to proceed.
8. Will I Have to Wait Forever to Get Paid?
Not anymore. Most claims are settled within 30-45 days after your medical treatment concludes. It could even be sooner, but it depends on the nature of your injury and the length of your recuperation. If you require prolonged treatment, we can often generate a more immediate settlement. Again, the sooner you call us, the sooner we can get the compensation you need.
9. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
That all depends. Known as the "statute of limitations," laws governing this time limit vary from case to case. Some litigation must be pursued very quickly – within 180 days -- like in cases involving the government. Others, such as birth trauma or childhood injuries, allow us to go back 18 years to pursue a settlement. The best advice is to call us immediately; if you miss your cut-off date, you can completely lose your rights to make a claim.
10. Can I Pick a Lawyer From the Yellow Pages?
Would you expect a plumber to perform heart surgery? Or a chef to repair your car? Personal injury cases require very special skills, and the best results come from experienced trial attorneys who concentrate their practice in personal injury. Unlike a "general practitioner" law firm, Goodwin & Scieszka have dedicated their practice to helping injured victims recover maximum financial settlements.
Top 10 Questions and Answers, Settlements and Litigation for Personal Injuries, Denial Of Benefits Lawyer, Insurance Pays for Medical Malpractice Claim, Structured Settlement Broker, How much is it going to cost, Who pays my medical bills, Why not defend myself
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