Oceana County, a beautiful rural locale in Michigan, is a community where over 26,000 residents live and engage in everyday activities, from work commutes to leisurely strolls with pets or routine visits to the doctor. However, life can be unpredictable, and anyone can unexpectedly become a victim of a personal injury accident, be it a car crash, dog bite, or even medical malpractice. In such situations, knowing a local Oceana personal injury attorney becomes essential. In this article, we’ll discuss why you need the expertise of a legal professional when dealing with personal injury cases.

Common Types of Personal Injury Cases 

A personal injury case typically arises when someone suffers harm due to another’s negligence or intentional act. Common types of personal injury cases include:

• Car Accidents. Car accidents often occur due to negligent driving, such as speeding or distracted driving. Under Michigan no-fault insurance law, insurance companies are responsible for paying the medical expenses and certain other benefits, regardless of who was at fault in the car accident. 
• Slip and Fall Accidents. Property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe. Slip and fall cases involve injuries sustained on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions like wet floors or poor lighting.
• Dog Bites. Michigan follows a “strict liability” rule for dog bite cases, meaning dog owners are held accountable for the harm caused by their dogs. Injuries from dog bites can lead to personal injury claims.
• Medical Malpractice. When healthcare professionals fail to provide an acceptable standard of care, resulting in harm or injury to a patient, it can lead to a personal injury case.

Why Consider Hiring an Oceana Personal Injury Attorney?

Hiring a local Oceana personal injury attorney after an accident can be highly beneficial. According to a survey conducted by Nolo, a trusted legal resource, 91% of the readers who hired an attorney received a settlement for their personal injury claim. In contrast, only 51% of those who tried to handle their personal injury claims on their own received some sort of compensation. 

Furthermore, the difference in the payout amounts is striking. On average, individuals with legal representation received settlements three times higher than those without an attorney. When it comes to negotiations, findings revealed that readers with legal counsel, who were patiently waiting for a better offer, received settlements that were, on average, over $30,000 higher than those who were not represented by an attorney. An auto accident case, for example, was settled for $2.7 million, the largest in Muskegon County, with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney.

The Role of an Oceana Personal Injury Attorney

When you work with an Oceana personal injury attorney, you can expect them to take on several important responsibilities as they advocate for your best interests. These responsibilities include:

• Case Evaluation. A personal injury attorney evaluates the merits of your case. Your attorney will carefully examine all the facts, evidence, and circumstances surrounding your injury to determine if there is a valid claim.
• Legal Advice. Personal injury attorneys offer legal advice and guidance, explaining your rights, potential courses of action, and the strengths and weaknesses of your case. Your attorney will help you make informed decisions regarding settlements, negotiations, or pursuing a lawsuit.
• Investigation. Your personal injury attorney will conduct a detailed investigation into the incident that led to your injury. The process may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, consulting experts, and collecting documentation to build a strong case.
• Legal Documentation. Personal injury attorneys prepare and file all necessary legal documents, including complaints, motions, and responses, in a timely manner. Proper documentation is essential in initiating and pursuing a lawsuit.
• Settlement Negotiations. A personal injury attorney negotiates with insurance companies, opposing parties, and their legal representatives on your behalf. These legal experts will use their negotiation skills to secure a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your damages while safeguarding your best interests.
• Court Representation. If a settlement cannot be reached, personal injury attorneys are responsible for representing you in court. Your attorney will present your case before a judge and jury, articulate legal arguments, and advocate for your rights and rightful compensation.

Shafer Swartz PLC: Your Trusted Oceana Personal Injury Attorneys

Have you been injured in an accident? Are you unsure about your legal options or need guidance on your next steps? If you find yourself facing the challenges of a personal injury case, Shafer Swartz PLC stands ready to assist you. Our seasoned Oceana personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact us today at (231) 722-2444 or here for a consultation, and trust us to be your advocates in your time of need.