Life can change in an instant, a car crash on Highway 83, a slip-and-fall at a local business, or another type of accident caused by someone else’s negligence can leave you with your life turned upside down. 

A severe injury can leave you with significant medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about the future. In difficult times like these, having the right legal advocate by your side can make all the difference. 

The personal injury lawyers at Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, LLC, have years of experience in helping accident victims in North Platte, Nebraska, recover fair compensation for their injuries. We also serve the nearby cities, including Grand Island, Hastings, Scottsbluff, and Kearney. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to someone else’s actions, our law firm is here to assist you. Call Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, LLC 24/7 at (402) 241-5020 today to schedule a free case review.

Common Personal Injury Cases in North Platte, NE

Our law firm handles a variety of personal injury cases, including:

  • Car accidents: With major highways like I-80 and Highway 83 running through North Platte, car accidents are not uncommon. Whether your auto accident was caused by distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, or reckless behavior, you deserve compensation. 
  • Truck accidents: North Platte sees a high volume of commercial trucks, increasing the risk of serious truck accidents. These cases involve complex regulations, making legal representation essential.
  • Slip-and-fall accidents: Property owners have a legal obligation to keep their homes and businesses safe and free from hazards. If you slip and fall due to wet floors, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim. 
  • Defective products: Manufacturers and designers are required by law to make products that are safe for consumers for their intended uses. If you have been injured by a defective product, you could have the basis for a product liability lawsuit. 
  • Workplace injuries: North Platte has a strong agricultural and industrial economy, and workplace injuries can happen in factories, farms, and other job sites. While workers’ compensation may cover some expenses, a personal injury lawyer can help if a third party (such as an equipment manufacturer) is also liable. 
  • Medical errors: If a doctor, nurse, or hospital has caused harm due to negligence, a medical malpractice claim may be warranted. These cases require strong evidence and expert testimony, which our experienced attorneys can gather. 
  • Wrongful death: Over 200 people are killed each year in Nebraska car accidents. If your loved one has died due to someone else’s negligence, a personal injury attorney can help your family seek justice. You could pursue compensation for funeral costs, burial expenses, and other losses. 

Why Hire a North Platte, NE Personal Injury Lawyer

Navigating an insurance claim can be overwhelming, especially if you sustained serious injuries. A personal injury attorney advocates for your rights, ensuring you get fair compensation for your injuries. 

Here are some ways a personal injury lawyer can help.

Understanding Nebraska’s Personal Injury Laws

Nebraska has specific laws that govern personal injury claims. A lawyer will help you navigate these laws and ensure you meet all legal requirements. 

Under Nebraska law, you generally have four years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if a government entity is involved, the deadline may be much shorter. Failing to file within the statute of limitations can result in losing your right to seek compensation. 

Nebraska follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found partially at fault for an accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. A personal injury attorney can help minimize your level of fault and protect your claim. 

Maximizing Compensation for Your Injuries

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Without legal guidance, you may accept a claim that is far lower than what you deserve. 

A personal injury attorney will assess the full extent of your damages, including:

  • Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments
  • Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries
  • Pain and suffering: Emotional and physical distress caused by the accident
  • Property damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged vehicles and belongings

A personal injury lawyer will ensure that all potential damages are accounted for so you receive fair compensation for your injuries. 

Handling Insurance Companies and Legal Proceedings

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially if they try to pressure you into settling quickly. Keep in mind that insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, not your best interests. 

A lawyer can:

  • Handle all communications with the insurance company for you 
  • Negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf
  • Gather evidence to strengthen your claim
  • Take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached

Having a personal injury attorney by your side levels the playing field and prevents insurers from taking advantage of you. 

Proving Liability and Collecting Evidence

To win a personal injury case, you must prove that the other party was negligent and caused your injuries. 

Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to gather crucial evidence, such as:

  • Police reports: Official accident reports that document key details
  • Medical records: Proof of injuries and necessary treatments
  • Eyewitness testimonies: Statements from people who witnessed the accident
  • Surveillance footage: If available, video evidence can be invaluable

A strong case backed by solid evidence increases your chances of a successful claim. 

Providing Local Experience 

Hiring a personal injury lawyer familiar with North Platte and Nebraska’s legal system gives you an advantage. 

Local attorneys understand:

  • The Nebraska court system and judges
  • The tactics used by local insurance companies
  • The best medical professionals for expert testimonies

Choosing an attorney with experience in North Platte ensures your case is handled with local knowledge and skill. 

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer in North Platte, Nebraska?

Many people hesitate to contact a lawyer because they fear high legal fees. However, most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. 

A contingency fee basis means:

  • No upfront costs: You don’t pay anything when you hire a lawyer
  • No fees unless you win: If your lawyer doesn’t secure compensation for you, you owe nothing
  • A percentage of the settlement: If your case is successful, a lawyer takes a pre-agreed-upon percentage (usually 25-40 percent) of the settlement of the court award.

This arrangement allows anyone, regardless of financial status, to afford quality legal representation. Before hiring a lawyer, be sure to discuss the fee structure, potential court costs, and any additional expenses to avoid surprises. 

Schedule a Free Consultation With a North Platte Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Navigating the aftermath of an accident and serious injury can be overwhelming, but having the right personal injury lawyer by your side can make all the difference. The best lawyers aren’t just skilled negotiators in the courtroom; they’re also compassionate advocates who prioritize your well-being. 

The personal injury attorneys at Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, LLC can clarify your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Your recovery matters, and with the right legal support to help, you can move forward with confidence. 

For a consultation, reach out to a trusted local personal injury lawyer today, because you shouldn’t have to face this battle alone. Call us today at (402) 241-5020 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.