Why should I hire an attorney to handle my personal injury case?

Insurance companies have agents and adjusters representing their best interests, so why shouldn’t you? A professional injury attorney on your side means alleviating the stress associated with fighting those large insurance companies. If you’ve been injured in an accident, then you’ve got more important things to do. Let the attorneys of EFS Law Center work towards getting you the fair compensation that you deserve.

I’m not sure whether I have a legitimate case. Do I have to pay for a consultation?

At EFS Law Center, we are happy to provide a free consultation in order to better understand your situation. One of our attorneys will meet with you—in person, or over the phone—to discuss the details and determine if you have grounds for a case.

How much will it cost to hire an attorney?

Concerning personal injury cases, we represent our clients on a contingency fee arrangement. In other words, if we do not obtain a recovery then you do not pay any fee. At EFS Law Center, if we handle your personal injury case, you will have no obligation to pay us unless we make a recovery for you. It is as simple as that. Regardless, we will always discuss any fees with you prior to us taking you on as a client.

How much can I expect to receive if my case is successful?

This is difficult to assess as there are many variables at play. The most important things to consider are the type of injury you sustained, the type of treatment you received, and whether you make (or are expected to make) a full recovery. All of these factors are important in valuing the potential payout for a personal injury case. However, after reviewing your situation, we will be able to determine a satisfactory figure we believe should be paid to you by the insurance company as compensation for your injuries.

Once it is determined that I have a case, how will it be handled internally?

At EFS Law Center, we handle all of our cases with the utmost of care and sensitivity. You are not merely a case number, but a valued client. Our team of professionals will be able to keep you informed as your case progresses; we will be available to answer any questions you may have, by phone or email, promptly and with courtesy and consideration.

Do I specifically require a personal injury attorney to handle my case, or will any lawyer do?

In the state of California, any attorney is permitted to handle your case—you can even choose to represent yourself if your case ultimately goes to trial—however, this is not recommended. When choosing an attorney to represent the sensitive nature of your personal injury, it is imperative that you have an agent with relevant knowledge and experience in the area of law related to your situation. The professionals at EFS Law Center are both knowledgeable and experienced in the field of personal injury law, with a proven track record of success.

How long before my personal injury case is resolved?

As a general rule of thumb, personal injury cases are not usually resolved until the conclusion of your medical treatment and the complete recovery from your specific injuries. This can typically last anywhere from one to three years.

If it is determined that you have suffered permanent injuries as a result of an accident, your case will not likely be resolved until your physician has determined that you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Additional factors that may contribute to a lag in the resolution include:

• delays from the insurance company
• liability issues surrounding accident
• reliability of witness (or witnesses) to your accident, if possible
• disagreement regarding the potential settlement offer

Will I Have to Go to Court?

Most personal injury cases are resolved outside of the courtroom. Insurance companies don’t like having to pay out, but they especially try to avoid being taken to trial. If the insurance company agrees to pay you what EFS believes to be a fair settlement, then you will not have to go to court.

However, this is not always the norm. Some cases require additional legal proceedings in order to be considered resolved. For example, during the course of a seemingly simple case, a greater misstep, or history of missteps, on the part of the insurance provider may be discovered that requires insight from a specialist.

While it is always encouraged to settle, the attorneys at EFS Law Center are experts and will pursue your case in court, if necessary.

The insurance company keeps reaching out, asking me to sign documents. Should I?

Absolutely not! Only after you have spoken to and become a client of a qualified personal injury attorney should you speak, or provide written statements, to an insurance adjuster. By providing too much information, or incorrect information, at an earlier stage, this may be used against you in court proceedings.

Am I able to sue my co-worker and/or employer for emotional suffering as the result of a work-related injury?

No. If you are injured on the job, then you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits which cover the costs of medical bills and lost wages if you are unable to return to work. Only in rare situations can you also seek additional compensation from another party. If you are already receiving workers’ compensation benefits and the insurance company is attempting to restrict or limit your benefits, or if you have been denied benefits outright, then you should contact EFS Law Center. Our attorneys are experienced in handling workers’ compensation cases.

I’m currently receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Can I request a lump sum settlement?

This depends on the details of your case. Most cases involving workers’ compensation claims involve a limited period of disability, meaning that compensation is paid out during this period only and stops once the claim is closed. If, however, you are unable to return to your job due to the permanent effects of a work-related injury, then you may be entitled to a lump sum settlement. It is always important that you consider your options. If you are currently receiving workers’ compensation benefits and you still have questions regarding a potential settlement of your claim, please do not hesitate to call EFS Law Center to schedule a FREE consultation.

I have full tort coverage on my automobile insurance. Should I consider switching to limited tort? What is the difference?

Opting for full tort coverage on an auto insurance policy allows a motorist to retain unrestricted rights to bring a lawsuit against the negligent party in the event of an automobile accident. Limited tort coverage allows drivers to save on their premiums by waiving the right to recover certain damages, including payments for pain and suffering. Your preferred tort option follows you, and every member of your household, both as a driver and as a passenger, wherever you go. It is strongly advised that you examine your automobile insurance prior to renewing. If you have opted for limited tort coverage, consider contacting your insurance agent and requesting a change to full tort—for your sake, and the sake of your family.