Is it worth it to hire a lawyer, because I have a small claim.
In my 31 years of experience, people usually under estimate the value of their claims. More importantly, in my experience it’s always been of benefit to the client to be professionally advised.
While I wait to finally settle my claim, will ICBC pay for my treatments and wage loss?
The answer to this is complicated. If you’re insured by ICBC you have two claims to be made. The first is under your own contract of insurance with ICBC. Under this coverage, ICBC is a “secondary insurer”, which means you first have to use other insurance coverage, if you have it, as the primary insurer.
If I hire a lawyer, does that mean I have to go to a trial?
No. The vast majority of claims are settled. Even when a court action is started, the vast majority of those actions are settled.
If I hire a lawyer won’t that drag out my claim?
Hiring a professional does not drag out your claim. But a personal injury lawyer will want to know the full nature and extent of your injuries in order to make a fair settlement for you.
When should I settle my claim?
ICBC typically tires to settle early, but the best time to settle is after you’ve made a full recovery and you’re back to your pre-injury lifestyle. Unfortunately, too many people are left with permanent effects. For those people, the best time to settle is when the full extent of the injuries and their effects onthat
If I hire a lawyer will I end up with less?
Personal injury lawyers provide valuable services, which include working hard in your interest to maximize your settlement. Maximizing your settlement means getting more money in your pocket after deducting for legal fees and expenses.
My friend was hurt in a car accident and I know what they settled for. Why can’t I just settle my claim for the same amount.
Every person is an individual and even the same juries will affect different people differently. Each claim in law is treated that way.
Do I need to have a lawyer represent me?
It’s not required. You can settle without professional advice, but how will you know you got a fair settlement, keeping in mind the adjuster works for, and is paid by, ICBC.
The ICBC adjuster is a nice person, why shouldn’t I just accept whatever they offer.
The ICBC adjuster works for ICBC. ICBC’s interest is to settle for the lowest amount possible.
How long do I have to settle my claim?
You have two years from the date of the accident to either settle your claim or to start a court action, unless you are an infant.
