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FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHY DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY?

Generally speaking, the insurance company will take your claim more seriously, and will pay you more money, if your claim is handled by an attorney.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST FOR AN INITIAL CONSULTATION?

Absolutely nothing! We are in the business of assisting people who have been injured. We offer an initial consultation free of charge. Our toll-free number is 1-888-671-SHIP (1-888-671-7447). After the initial consultation, our personal injury and wrongful death fees are based on a percentage of what we recover for you, after costs are paid. You don’t have to pay attorney’s fees unless we achieve a reward or settlement for you.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I AM INJURED?
  1. Report the injury to the proper authority – a contemporaneous report can be critical to documenting your claim for future needs.
  2. Get medical assistance – only medical providers can diagnose and treat injuries.
  3. Obtain the names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses to the incident – this important information can often only be obtained at the time of the incident.
  4. Take photographs of the incident scene and damaged property – it is often impossible to recreate an accident scene if photographs are not taken.
  5. Contact the law office of Dennis P. Murphy – a delay in retaining an attorney can compromise your claim.
WILL I HAVE TO GO TO TRIAL?

The vast majority of cases are resolved without actually having to go to trial. Still, all cases need to be prepared as if they are going to trial in order to maximize your results. Whether the case settles before trial, or whether your case goes to trial, Dennis Murphy will be with you every step of the way.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO RESOLVE MY CLAIM?

There are a number of factors that can affect how long it takes to resolve any claim. Some of those factors include how seriously you were injured, how long it takes you to recover, if job retraining becomes necessary, if the insurance company employs delaying tactics, what expert witnesses need to be retained, what accident reconstruction needs to be done, and what the schedule of the attorneys and trial court is. As your case proceeds, an estimate can be provided as to how long it will take to resolve your claim.

HOW DO I HANDLE MY MEDICAL EXPENSES?

In the best of times, paying medical bills is a daunting task. When you are injured, it becomes even more difficult. There is no simple answer to this problem. If there is insurance that covers your medical expenses, such as health insurance or PIP coverage, that can help. An in-depth discussion with your attorney can help you figure out the best and most creative way to get your medical bills paid immediately while your case is being resolved.

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF MY CLAIM?

The answer to this question often depends upon your medical provider’s opinions and whether or not you can return to work. Every claim is unique. Only after your medical condition has become fixed, your future limitations and restrictions become known, your past and future medical expenses and lost wages are understood, and all other aspects of your damages are estimated will we be able to provide you with a range of values of your claim. Dennis Murphy is dedicated to obtaining maximum results for his clients.

WHAT IS PIP (Personal Injury Protection) INSURANCE?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is optional coverage you can purchase as a part of your automobile insurance policy. PIP pays your medical bills up to the policy limits for those in your car who are injured, whether the accident is your fault or someone else’s fault. PIP can also provide an income continuation benefit up to the policy limits. PIP insurance may cover some household expenses you need to pay because you are no longer able to do certain household tasks. The amount and types of services covered depends on your particular policy.

WHAT IS UNINSURED MOTORIST INSURANCE?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance (UIM) is optional coverage you can purchase as a part of your automobile insurance. This insurance protects you if you are injured by someone who is uninsured or underinsured. UIM pays for bodily injury and property damage caused by an uninsured motorist or a hit-and-run driver. UIM insurance will also cover you if you are hit by a motorist whose limits are not adequate to pay for injuries or damages.