When someone else's negligence causes harm to you or a family member, hiring a personal injury attorney can be crucial for ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve. However, many people who've never been through the process may not know what to expect, or how a lawyer works to get you the maximum award possible.

When working with a personal injury attorney, it's important to understand:

• Their Fee Structure: Unlike legal professionals in other practice areas, personal injury attorneys typically work on a contingency basis, meaning they usually only collect a fee if they prevail in your case. This arrangement dramatically lowers your risk, while giving your lawyer powerful incentives to pursue the best settlement agreement available.
• They Represent Your Interests: When working with a personal injury attorney, it's important not to communicate directly with the insurer or meet with an adjuster without your lawyer present. Negotiating directly with the insurer can undercut the work your attorney is doing, and may result in a substantially lower settlement than you would have received otherwise. Keep in mind that you hired a lawyer to represent your interests because you respect their expertise.
• The Process Can Be Long: The long process of negotiation and evidence-gathering can be extremely frustrating, especially if you're dealing with painful injuries that make working impossible. You may even consider accepting a low offer rather than wait, but this is usually a mistake. As slow as the process can be, the end result is worthwhile if it results in a substantially higher settlement.

For over 110 years, Sanders Austin & Flanigan's lawyers have been serving accident victims throughout the Princeton, WV, area. Whether you've been hurt in an auto accident or injured due to medical malpractice, you can rely on these skilled personal injury attorneys for help collecting the compensation you deserve. Visit their website today to learn more about their tradition of excellence, or call (304) 425-8125 for a free initial consultation with a personal injury attorney.