If you slipped and fell at someone else’s home or business, you’re probably wondering whether you need an attorney to help with your claim. As long as the property owner has adequate liability coverage, after all, the insurance adjuster should be able to guide you through the proceedings.
Just because injured parties are entitled to represent themselves, however, doesn’t mean they should. They usually have enough to worry about in the aftermath of the accident without having to navigate the claims process. What’s more, you can’t expect the insurance adjuster to prioritize your best interests. They might be sympathetic to your situation, but they must ultimately protect the carrier’s bottom line.
Put another way, if you’re planning on filing a slip and fall claim, it’s wise to enlist legal help. If you turn to a reputable firm, you can expect your premises liability lawyer to do the following:
1. Conduct a Comprehensive Investigation
Your attorney can handle every aspect of your claim, starting with the initial investigation. They’ll use all the resources at their disposal to determine why you slipped and what the liable party could have done to prevent the accident. Along the way, they’ll gather the evidence needed to convince the insurance adjuster of their findings.
2. Track Recoverable Damages
To help you pursue the maximum payout possible, your lawyer will track all associated losses diligently. After all, you can’t seek compensation for damages you can’t prove you incurred.
In addition to saving relevant bills, invoices, and paystubs, your attorney will help you log non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Since these losses are intangible, tracking them can pose a challenge. Thankfully, resourceful lawyers have a number of strategies for doing so.
3. Negotiate for a Settlement
Your attorney can handle every aspect of the settlement negotiations on your behalf. Perhaps more importantly, though, they won’t fall for any of the insurance adjuster’s manipulation tactics along the way.
Most slip and fall claims are settled, so there’s a good chance yours will be, too. If the opposing party believes they have cause to challenge some aspect of your claim, however, they may be uncooperative during the negotiations.
Should this end up being the case, you may have to file a formal lawsuit in order to seek the compensation you deserve. As long as you hired a lawyer with litigation experience, though, you shouldn’t have to worry about navigating the subsequent proceedings. Your attorney will guide you every step of the way.
Speak with a New York Slip & Fall Lawyer
If you want to file a slip and fall claim in New York, you can count on the compassionate team at Leitner Varughese for strategic guidance every step of the way. Counseling clients in New York City, Long Island, and throughout the rest of the state, we’re proud to advocate for those who have been wronged by others. Call 855-585-2969 or fill out our Contact Form to set up a free consultation with a slip and fall attorney in New York.
