FAQ’s

Tiano O’Dell in Charleston, West Virginia provides answers to some frequently asked questions about accident injuries.

Do I have a case?

The only way to be certain about whether you have a personal injury case is to talk to an experienced accident injury attorney. Medical problems caused by an accident may not be fully recognized for months or even years afterwards. Losses from medical bills, decreased earning potential and many other problems can pile up unexpectedly. An attorney with experience representing personal injury victims and negotiating with insurance companies can analyze your case, determine fair compensation for your losses and devise a strategy for obtaining damages.

How much is my case worth?

Compensation for your injuries depends on several factors, including the extent of your injuries, physical and mental pain and suffering, the amount and length of medical treatment, economic hardship or financial loss, decreased earning potential, and physical impairment and/or disfigurement.

Should I accept an insurance company’s settlement offer?

Before accepting a settlement, it is always in your best interest to consult an attorney. Adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their job is to settle the matter for the lowest possible cost to the company. Your attorney will work for you and ensure that a settlement results in full compensation for your injuries. You don’t want to sign away your rights only to later discover that your injuries and losses were worse than you originally thought.

Will I have to go to court?

Many injury claims can be settled for their full value through negotiation, mediation or arbitration, without having to go to court. However, some complex cases may require that you participate in legal proceedings.

When should I call an attorney?

You should consult an attorney as soon as possible after being injured. In most cases there is a time limit for filing claims after an injury occurs, and if this deadline passes, your claim could be dismissed. In addition, finding witnesses and gathering evidence to support your case becomes more difficult the longer you wait.

How do I choose an attorney?

The success of personal injury attorneys is based on several factors, including education, legal skill and experience. The attorney you retain should have a proven record of winning cases similar to yours and should be willing to thoroughly explain his or her recommendations based on the specific details of your case. Your attorney should also have extensive experience settling cases through negotiation and trying cases in court. Another very important factor is for you to feel comfortable with your attorney, and confident that your interests will be a top priority.

How much will the legal process cost?

Tiano O’Dell will be happy to provide you with a free, no-obligation evaluation of your prospective personal injury claim.

We accept personal injury cases on a contingency-fee basis, which means that you pay no legal fees unless we recover money for you. We understand that families can be ruined, both physically and financially, when a loved one is seriously injured in an accident. Medical bills can mount quickly, and in many instances, the injured family member misses work because of the injuries, causing even greater financial hardship on the family. A contingency-fee arrangement allows you and your family to receive assistance at the time you need it most.

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