Greene & Phillips: Hesitant to call a lawyer

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - After an accident, many injured people hesitate to call a lawyer because they say, “I’m just not the suing type.” But hiring an attorney isn’t always about filing a lawsuit- often, it’s simply about protecting yourself and getting guidance during a stressful time. David Greene from Greene & Phillips Injury Lawyers joined us on Studio10 to explain.

The following questions and answers were provided by Greene & Phillips:

This is something you probably hear all the time, isn’t it?

Almost every day. A lot of people feel uncomfortable about calling a lawyer because they think it automatically means they’re filing a huge lawsuit or trying to take advantage of someone, and that’s usually not the reality at all.

What does hiring a personal injury attorney really mean?

Most of the time, it means hiring someone to help guide you through the process and deal with the insurance company on your behalf. After an accident, you’re trying to recover physically and emotionally while also dealing with medical bills, missed work, and insurance adjusters. Having an attorney means having someone on your side looking out for your interests.

Insurance companies handle claims every day, and their goal is to save money whenever possible. That doesn’t mean they’re automatically offering what’s fair. A lawyer helps level the playing field and makes sure you understand your rights and options.

Some people also worry that pursuing a claim somehow hurts the other person involved...

That’s very common. But in most cases, you’re dealing with insurance coverage that exists for situations exactly like this. People pay insurance premiums for protection after accidents happen. Seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages isn’t about being greedy- it’s about trying to recover after an injury someone else caused.

What are some mistakes people make when they try to handle things on their own?

A big one is accepting a quick settlement before they understand the full extent of their injuries. Once a case is settled, you generally can’t go back later and ask for more money if you end up needing additional treatment or surgery.

Having an attorney can actually protect people from making costly decisions too early.

Absolutely. A good attorney should educate you, answer your questions, gather the right documentation, and help take some of the stress off your shoulders while you focus on healing.

What’s the main thing you want viewers to remember?

You don’t have to think of hiring a lawyer as “suing somebody.” Think of it as hiring an experienced advisor to protect you and help you navigate a difficult situation after an accident.

If someone has questions after an injury, how can they contact Greene & Phillips?

You can stop by our office at 51 North Florida Street anytime- no appointment needed. You can also call or text us at 251-300-2000, or visit GreenePhillips.com