5 Signs It’s Time To Call A Personal Injury Attorney

It’s natural to feel inundated with stressful tasks after an accident. Between calling insurance companies, making doctor’s appointments, informing loved ones about your injuries, and even taking time off from work, the last thing you probably want to deal with is a legal battle.

Some victims assume they can just handle the process on their own; meanwhile, others think hiring an attorney will automatically result in a long, overwhelming lawsuit. But the truth? Consulting with a personal injury attorney early doesn’t necessarily mean you’re heading to court; it just means you’re protecting yourself.

The right lawyer will help you fully understand your rights, preserve key evidence in your case, and deal with insurers so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.

If you’re currently unsure whether it’s time to reach out for help, here are five clear signs that speaking to a personal injury attorney is the right move.

1. You've Been Injured

Following an accident, victims might brush off their injuries or assume the pain will eventually fade. But what initially seems like a small bruise, ache, or strain can potentially develop into something much more serious over time.

For instance, concussions, neck and back trauma, nerve damage, and injuries to soft tissue may worsen days or weeks later. And, in some cases, these seemingly “minor” injuries could actually end up leading to long-term complications that impact your ability to work and/or simply live your life normally.

Plus, these injuries also tend to come with lofty medical bills, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and even lost wages. Yet, because symptoms don’t always immediately appear or seem “severe” off the bat, many victims unknowingly underestimate the real value of their personal injury claim.

Insurance companies may try to take advantage of this, too. They might offer a fast settlement before the full range of your injuries is clear, and accepting that low offer could leave you on the hook for future medical expenses that should’ve been covered in the first place.

This is exactly why contacting a personal injury attorney early is essential. The right legal advocate will make sure all your injuries are properly documented, review your medical records, consult with experts, and build a case that accounts for current and future losses.

They’ll fight to secure compensation that reflects the real impact of your injuries, not just how they appear on day one. 

2. Fault or Liability Is Not Clear

Unfortunately, not every accident has an obvious cause (or even just one responsible party). In the case of a car accident, for instance, maybe multiple drivers were involved in the crash. Or, in a trip and fall case, both a property owner and a maintenance company could share responsibility for unsafe conditions. And unfortunately, sometimes, a victim gets blamed for being partially at fault.

In these scenarios, liability can become a legal gray area. And since New York is a comparative fault state, your compensation could potentially be reduced if you’re found even partly responsible.

That’s why a personal injury attorney dedicated to building a strong case on your behalf is crucial. They’ll investigate the accident, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and even work with third-party experts to establish exactly what occurred. And the sooner this process starts, the more time your attorney will have to bolster your case strategy. 

3. The Insurance Company Isn't Cooperating

Insurance companies like to advertise that they’re “on your side.” But don’t be fooled: when it comes time to actually pay out claims, their top priority is to minimize company costs, not treat you fairly.

As you try to speak with insurers about your accident, you may find that adjusters delay their responses, offer low settlements, or even ask for statements (which can be used against you later). Finally, some might deny your claim is valid altogether.

If you ever feel like you’re being treated unfairly by an insurance company, it’s time to let an attorney step in. They know how to communicate with insurers, hold them accountable, and prevent any costly mistakes.

At Langella & Langella, we’re fully aware of the tactics insurers use when victims are at their most vulnerable, and we are ready to push back.

4. Your Claim Was Undervalued or Denied

There’s nothing more frustrating than doing everything right and still receiving a disappointing outcome. Perhaps you filed a claim in the appropriate time frame, provided all your documentation, and cooperated with adjusters, only to get a settlement offer that barely scratches the surface of your incurred losses.

Again, in certain situations, insurance companies will even flat-out deny your claim by saying there’s “insufficient evidence.” Or, they may attempt to argue that your injuries weren’t actually caused by the accident.

This is exactly where powerful representation becomes essential. Once you consult with a personal injury attorney, they’ll be able to review your claim, pinpoint what went wrong, and construct a stronger case for either appeal or litigation. 

5. You're Unsure What Your Claim Is Worth

Lastly, even if your case seems straightforward, it can still be difficult to put a dollar amount on your pain, suffering, recovery, and other life disruptions. Moreover, no two personal injury claims are exactly the same, and what looks like a minor accident on paper may sometimes still result in hidden costs or other long-term impacts.

Attorneys skilled in personal injury law, on the other hand, are no strangers to the complex nature of these claims. They know how to evaluate both economic and non-economic damages, accounting for things like lifestyle changes, emotional distress, and projected future medical expenses.

At our firm, we’re committed to understanding each client’s unique case as a whole, because no one should ever have to settle for less than what they deserve. 

5. When In Doubt, Get Legal Guidance Early 

Remember– consulting with a personal injury attorney cost nothing. The consultation just ensures you have the information and support you need to make the best decisions for your personal situation.

Langella & Langella Personal Injury Attorneys have spent decades advocating for accident victims across Long Island. And our team takes care of every step of the process, from compiling evidence and talking to insurers to representing clients in court when necessary.

So, don’t hesitate to contact us at (631) 348-9500 for a Free Consultation. We’ll protect your rights and best interest from the very beginning.