Accidents and falls may result in neck injuries that can cripple you for a prolonged period of time. These injuries may not immediately reveal themselves, but you could feel pain and stiffness occurring from 24 hours up to several days later.
Following any type of accident, you should be seen promptly for a comprehensive medical exam. You should also have a consultation with a personal injury lawyer that is familiar with neck injuries. In Las Vegas, be sure to contact Pacific West Injury law. One of our Las Vegas neck injury attorneys can assist you with a free consultation.
How To Know When You Need A Neck Injury Lawyer In Las Vegas
A neck injury lawyer can help you receive compensation for your neck injury to cover medical bills and compensate for the loss of income if you need to take time away from work to heal.
Look for an attorney with a proven track record of winning cases for their neck injury clients. Kris Helmick, the founder of Pacific West Injury Law, has that experience. He also knows Nevada’s laws and its justice system. Kris limits his caseload to the immediate area of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson.
To win your case, Kris and his team will investigate your accident to find out who was at fault. Then, they will work to prove that fault and get the compensation you need for the damages you have suffered.
Proving Fault By Proving Negligence
It is no surprise that negligence is the leading cause of vehicle accidents. The same holds for almost any type of accident, including slip-and-falls.
At work, in a store or business open to the public, and on the roadway, we all have a responsibility to ensure our own safety and the safety of others. This includes protecting employees, fellow workers, customers, other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians from accidents whenever possible. Failing that duty of care is a result of negligence.
Whether you were in a car accident, a pedestrian who slipped and fell, or suffered a neck injury at work, someone could and should be held accountable.
Avoid Talking With Insurance Companies
If an insurance adjuster contacts you after an accident resulting in injury to your neck, do not talk with them. Tell them to talk to your attorney and give them the firm name and number. In fact, you should not discuss your accident with anyone other than emergency personnel, your medical team, your loved ones, and your attorney. Why?
Many of us tend to comment such as, “I should have seen the wet floor,” following a slip and fall accident. Never claim guilt. That is what the responsible party’s insurance company is waiting for.
Insurance companies will use any means to avoid paying claims. They have many tricks, and without having an attorney to run interference, it can be hard to defend against all of the ways they will attempt to deny or devalue your claim.
Damages You Can Claim For Your Neck Injury
When you suffer a neck injury in an accident, you will likely be eligible to claim a wide variety of damages. The specific damages that apply to your case will depend on the particulars of your accident and the parties involved. In any case, you should be able to claim both economic and non-economic damages after an injury.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover any losses you suffered that resulted in a loss of money. This loss can either be through expenses you are forced to pay or money you are unable to earn. Some of the most common economic damages include:
- Current and future medical costs
- Lost wages
- Lost ability to earn money in the future
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
Any losses you suffered that were not classified as economic losses are considered non-economic damages. Non-economic damages are wide-ranging, and most are irreplaceable. Because of this, the money you can recover for these damages is often significant. Some of the most common non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Permanent disability
- Diminished quality of life
Punitive Damages May Also Be Available
In cases where the liable party acted in a manner deemed criminally negligent, or if their actions were carried out with the express intent of causing harm, you may be able to recover punitive damages. Punitive damages are only awarded in extreme cases. Your Las Vegas neck injury lawyer can help identify if punitive damages are likely to apply.
Insurance Companies Want To Pay Out As Little As Possible
Let’s face it. Insurance companies are in business to make money. Their adjuster calling you is a sign they know their client is responsible for your accident.
Now, they want to get away with paying you as little as possible or not paying you at all. Always let your attorney deal with insurance companies to ensure you get what you deserve.
Often if an insurer knows they will have to pay out a claim, they will offer a settlement deal soon after the accident. They will try to make it seem like the purpose of this offer is to be helpful. However, in actuality, they are hoping you will agree to an amount far below the true value of your claim.
How A Las Vegas Neck Injury Lawyer Will Make Your Case
Your Las Vegas neck injury attorney and their legal team will start by investigating your accident and anyone else involved. This includes:
- Any information you have about the accident
- The name and contact information of others involved
- Your recollection of the incident
- Witness names and numbers
- A copy of the police report, if applicable
- Video camera footage, if applicable
- Photos of your injuries
- Copies of your medical records
As your attorney moves along with your case, they may also:
- Look for any previous records of the individual or business being involved in a similar accident
- Seek expert witness input and advice, and if needed, testimony
- Discuss your injuries and prognosis with your doctor
All this information will help your neck injury lawyer make a solid case on your behalf. They will be equipped to enter negotiations for a settlement with those responsible and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to take your case to court.
How Much Does A Neck Injury Attorney In Las Vegas Cost?
Your concern should be for taking care of your injuries, not finances, so let us put your mind at ease. There are no upfront costs when you hire Pacific West Injury Law. In fact, we offer you a free initial consultation, giving you the opportunity to meet with us and have us address your concerns while we evaluate your case.
When you agree to have Pacific West Injury Law represent you, we will have you sign a representation agreement. Included in the agreement, will be the cost of our fees, which represent a percentage of the compensation you will receive when we win your case. If for any reason, you do not win your case, you will owe us nothing.
Consider it a sign of confidence in the representation we feel we can provide for you.
How Long Could The Investigation And Legal Case Take?
Nevada’s statute of limitations states you have up to two years from the date of your accident to file a legal case against those responsible, although there can be some exceptions to this. While that may sound like a long time, proper investigation and building a case file can be a lengthy process. Do not waste any time. Call for legal help as soon as you can.
Choosing A Neck Injury Lawyer
Whether you have whiplash or a neck fracture resulting from an accident, after you have received medical attention, it is time to find an experienced neck injury lawyer. You will want someone local, experienced with Nevada’s personal injury laws, and familiar with Clark County’s judicial system.
Contact Us For A Free Consultation
Take advantage of Pacific West Injury Law’s offer for a free initial consultation to discuss your accident and your case. You can count on Kris Helmick to treat your case with care and compassion. Kris will put the time and energy into proper preparation to fight for your legal rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait. Contact Pacific West Injury Law today.