Why is handling my auto injury claim myself so hard?
What are my rights if I am injured due to the negligence of others?
Do I need an attorney?
Do I have any options or recourse in dealing with an insurance company on my own?
Why should I consult an attorney before talking to someone from the insurance company?
Why should I choose Lingenbrink Law to represent me?
What are the fees and costs involved in hiring a personal injury attorney?
How do I know if my case qualifies for legal representation?
How are personal injury damages determined?
Are there alternatives to a lawsuit?
Can I choose which health care provider treats my injuries?

Why is handling my auto injury claim myself so hard?
Automobile accidents can be very upsetting and the process to recover your losses does not make the accident any easier. Dealing with the insurance companies can be very confusing when you are unfamiliar with the terms they use and the value of your case. This is especially true when you are experiencing pain at the same time. Most automobile accident matters are handled by lawyers experienced in dealing with insurance companies and their attorneys.

What are my rights if I am injured due to the negligence of others?
As a general rule, if you (the plaintiff) sustain personal injury or loss as a result of another person's (the defendant's) negligent act, you are entitled to recover monetary compensation. Common examples of personal injury claims include auto accidents, product liability and industrial accidents. If you choose to seek recovery, monetary compensation is available for wage loss, property damage, employment benefit loss, health care expenses, pain and loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, disability, and other types of losses.

Your ability to recover is based on factual and legal considerations. The key is whether the defendant has liability coverage for your injury. Your recovery is also dependent upon the defendant's ability to pay, either personally or through insurance; and/or through your own uninsured motorist or under-insured motorist coverage. In addition, if your own negligence contributed to the accident or loss, the court may assess you a percentage of fault which diminishes your recovery proportionately.

Do I need an attorney?
The law does not require you to hire an attorney to handle your personal injury claim. Nonetheless, the legal expertise and experience that a qualified personal injury attorney provides you will greatly increase your ability to obtain a prompt and fair settlement. Insurance and personal injury laws are complex topics. An attorney's expertise can prove to be invaluable when interpreting the law and your legal rights.

Do I have any options or recourse in dealing with an insurance company on my own?
Yes, you can seek out legal assistance from Lingenbrink Law. When you retain our legal services you not only retain our exemplary reputation, you also retain our expertise in acting on your behalf when negotiating with insurance companies. We deal with insurance companies on a daily basis and speak their language. At your initial consultation, we will discuss real life examples of the economic and time-saving benefits we have provided clients—benefits we can also provide you.

Why should I consult an attorney before talking to someone from the insurance company?
Any information which you provide to an insurance company may be used against you. You are not required to make a statement to an insurance adjuster. It is advisable to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney first before saying or signing anything. A qualified attorney knows how to present the facts to the insurance company and represent your best interest. Read your insurance policy and make a copy for your attorney. Even if you decide to handle your own case, a short conference with an experienced attorney can save you considerable trouble in the long run. If meeting with an attorney is impossible or inconvenient for you, be as reserved in your answers as possible. Be careful not to volunteer information unless asked. Be informed about the insurance benefits you have purchased.

Why should I choose Lingenbrink Law to represent me? 
Because we are skilled personal injury attorneys who will take the burden of dealing with insurance companies from you and prosecute your case to a successful completion.

What are the fees and costs involved in hiring a personal injury attorney?
Most law firms, including Lingenbrink Law, accept personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis. This means that the attorney is paid a percentage of the recovery received and is, therefore, not paid until your case is finalized. If there is no recovery, there is no fee. The contingent fee is based on the attorney's time and services expended. In all cases, you pay the out-of-pocket expenses, such as filing fees, copies, transcripts, etc. Additionally, your attorney may advance costs for you, but you are obligated to pay costs at the time of settlement. It is very important to have a clear understanding of your attorney's fees and costs during your initial consultation.

How do I know if my case qualifies for legal representation? 
The attorneys of Lingenbrink Law invite you to schedule an appointment with us for a consultation at no charge. Only then can we begin to evaluate the merits of your case.

How are personal injury damages determined?
Damages are determined by a number of factors including:

• Physical and mental pain and loss of enjoyment of life
• Economic hardship or financial loss
• Impairment of future earning capacity
• Physical impairment and/or disfigurement

Are there alternatives to a lawsuit?
Yes. As a general rule, most personal injury cases settle before going to trial through negotiation, mediation or arbitration.

Can I choose which health care provider treats my injuries?
Yes. Any competent health care provider including a medical doctor, a chiropractor, a naturopathic physician, a physical therapist, etc. can assist you in your recovery. Some insurance companies discriminate against alternative care. For this reason, it is important to work with an attorney who understands all types of care and is experienced in resolving problems with insurance companies.

Personal injury accidents, insurance claims and coverage issues are complex areas to navigate without a seasoned guide. That's why talking to an attorney from Lingenbrink Law can be a wise first step. And, it's free. Call us at 425-285-6000 or email us to schedule your no cost consultation.