In a perfect world, personal injury attorneys wouldn’t be needed. When you were injured in an accident, the insurance company of the responsible party would offer a fair settlement, and you would be taken care of. Worker’s Compensation claims would be properly paid out. Other situations would be addressed, and your injuries cared for.

Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world. In many cases, responsible parties balk at paying what they owe to those who have been injured. If you are having trouble getting what you owe — or even if you are worried that you won’t be treated fairly — it makes sense to hire a personal injury lawyer. Here are 5 situations that especially call for professional legal help:

1. An Insurance Company that Refuses to Pay

If you have been injured in an accident and the insurance company refuses to pay, or insists on paying only a very small portion of the damages, it’s time to get a lawyer. In fact, you are often better off getting a personal injury attorney before you even start talking to the insurance company. Many companies delay payment, or try to get away with paying as little as possible, even if it’s not fair. A personal injury lawyer can show that you are serious, and that you are represented by someone who will work hard to get you what you deserve.

2. Severe Injuries

Those looking for compensation at the highest end of the range for severe injuries should consider hiring a lawyer. An experienced personal injury attorney has seen enough that he or she understands what the costs are likely to be. This includes more than just a hospital stay. Many severe injuries require rehabilitation and lost wages. Your lawyer can help you determine what’s reasonable and fair, and ensure that you get it.

3. Long-Term/Permanent Disability

If you have been subject to long-term disability or permanent disability, a personal injury attorney can help. In these cases, your ability to provide for your family is severely hampered, or even taken away completely. You need to be compensated for this reality. A good lawyer can help you protect your interests and make sure that your family is provided for, even though you can’t work for a long time, or you may never return to the workforce.

4. Malpractice

Another concern comes when those working on you mess up. Medical malpractice is a major cause of death and injury in our country. If you are a victim of medical malpractice, the help of an experienced personal injury attorney is invaluable. You may not know what your options are, or what is reasonable to ask in these situations. Your lawyer is on your side, and can help you make the decisions and determinations that can result in getting the help and compensation you deserve.

5. Hazardous Chemicals Exposure

There are numerous stories of toxins from irresponsible parties getting into the environment. These toxins can have an impact on your health, and the health of your children. Whether it’s in the water, air, soil, products you buy, or food supply, you need to be aware of what’s happening. From dangerous chemicals in everyday products that you use to pollutants in the air, it’s important to know what is affecting your health. If something has sickened you or a loved one, especially if it has caused a terminal or serious chronic illness, you need the law on your side as you pursue damages and seek to make it right.

The attorneys at Ingerman & Horwitz understand the ins and outs of the justice system, and are experienced in dealing with parties reluctant to own up to their responsibilities. If you are facing an uphill battle, the help of our experts can prove to be vital. Contact us today for a free consultation.  We’re here to help.