Auto / Truck Accidents
If you or your loved one has been involved in an auto accident, you are probably aware of the difficulties that can follow an accident claim. A few of these challenges may include dealing with the insurance adjusters, getting a rental car, seeing your doctor and losing time at work.
That is where an experienced auto accident attorney can help. We know what needs to be done so you can receive the compensation you deserve while you relax and concentrate on putting your life back to normal.
Questions About Accident Cases
Below are some common questions asked about accident cases:
How do I pay for legal assistance?
Attorneys who handle personal injury claims are usually paid on a contingency basis. This means that you don't have to pay anything unless and until we win your case. Our fees will be deducted from your settlement or award. If there is no recovery, we do not get paid.
How long will it take to get a fair settlement offer?
The Law Office of G. Patrick Jacobs will work hard to investigate your claim and to prepare your case for possible settlement as quickly as possible. We know that most people prefer not to have their case drag on and on. Our main goal is to work hard and quickly to resolve your case so that you receive the compensation you deserve for payment of medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, annoyance and inconvenience and loss of enjoyment of life.
Will I have to go to court?
If the insurance company agrees to pay what we believe your case is worth, and you wish to settle for that amount, then you don't have to go to court. The vast majority of auto accident insurance claims are settled out of court. At the Law Office of G. Patrick Jacobs we work hard to complete the preparation of your case so that it is ready to settle when you are. We have the highly trained and experienced staff that will assemble your medical records and medical bills along with any and all independent medical examinations necessary for your case without delay. Your case gets the personal attention it deserves. We recognize the financial inconvenience and hardship that a motor vehicle accident can cause you to suffer. That is why we work quickly to prepare your case for settlement.
What are compensatory damages?
Compensatory damages "compensate" the injured person for various kinds of losses or damages. These may also be referred to as "actual damages." The courts do not allow attorneys to argue that the award should be what a juror would want to go through a similar injury, but the instructions call for "reasonable" compensation.
What are punitive damages?
Punitive damages may be recoverable in certain circumstances. Punitive damages exist to punish or make example of the wrongdoer for conduct that is intentional, or when the wrongdoer acts in a reckless manner in disregard for the rights of others. The actual payment of punitive damages is rare, and appellate courts frequently cut punitive damage awards down, or simply throw them out. However, the threat of punitive damages can often induce the defense to make an increased settlement.