subject: Why Do You Need A Icbc Claims Lawyer [print this page] ICBC, the principal auto insurance provider in the province of British Columbia offers varied insurance policies and personal plans to motorists throughout BC including Canada.
When an individual meets with a collision or an accident, it becomes important to hire the services of an ICBC lawyer in Surrey who is able to ensure that the individual receives claim benefits for damages or no-fault benefits. Even though it is not mandatory to hire a lawyer while dealing with ICBC, it is advisable to appoint a lawyer as they have extensive experience in the field and are able to secure good benefits.
Importance of a Lawyer:
When faced with a collision, ICBC appoints an adjuster who surveys the entire incident and gives a report based on which compensations are made by ICBC. But it is important to note that the adjuster is experienced in this field and thus chalks out a report that benefits ICBC and not the claimant; therefore it becomes necessary to appoint a claims lawyer to resolve the claim at a fair amount.
A claims lawyer performs the following duties;
Acts in the interest of the claimant
Advises on the rights and how to exercise them efficiently
Collects all the facts regarding the accident
Attempts to gain a fair settlement amount
Submits relevant medical information that shows the extent of injury
In case a fair settlement is not meted out to the claimant, the lawyer assists in taking the case to the court in order to ensure fair settlement. It is important to note that hiring a lawyer does not mean that the case has to go in court for settlement; in fact merely 1% of claims are settled in court.
Charges :
Most personal claims lawyers offer free consultation initially in order to help the claimant decide whether a lawyer is required for the case or not. It is advisable to obtain legal advice from a personal claims lawyer after a collision as they are able to guide as well as provide legal options. After an initial consultation, it becomes easier to judge the claims and also whether there is any requirement to hire a lawyer.
For personal injury claims, one can pay the lawyer on contingency basis, which means the fee is based on percentage. If the claimant receives no settlement money, he is not required to pay the lawyer. In case a settlement is based, depending upon the percentage, the lawyer is entitled to his share. The fee usually ranges from 20%- 30%. Lawyers can also be paid in the conventional hourly basis.
Conclusion:
It is seen from the above information that hiring an ICBC lawyer in Surrey is a better choice than to seek compensation by ones own self. A lawyer will be able to guide and assist on every legal matter ensuring a fair settlement that is due for the claimant. Making a claim is a rather difficult and complex procedure which can be made easy with the help of a well experienced lawyer.
