When tragedy strikes — whether through a serious accident or the unexpected loss of a loved one — most people are left feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and emotionally drained. Legal action may be the last thing on your mind. But if you’ve suffered harm because of someone else’s negligence, the decisions you make in the days and weeks that follow can have a lasting impact on your future.

One of the most important decisions? Hiring an experienced attorney — and doing it early.

Time Isn’t on Your Side — The Clock Starts Now

Every state has a statute of limitations, which is a strict deadline for filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim. In many cases, you may have only one to three years to file — and sometimes even less, especially in claims involving government entities.

But the pressure isn’t just legal. Evidence fades. Witnesses forget. Surveillance footage disappears. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to build a strong case.

By hiring a lawyer early, you’re giving yourself the best chance to preserve key evidence, document your injuries, and protect your rights before anything is lost or compromised.

Insurance Companies Start Working Against You Immediately

Insurance adjusters aren’t just taking notes — they’re building a defense against your claim from the moment they hear about the incident. They may reach out quickly, offering a fast (and usually lowball) settlement, hoping you’ll take it before fully understanding the value of your case.

An attorney acts as your shield. Once you have legal representation, the insurance company has to go through your lawyer — and they know the games won’t work. A good attorney can stop manipulative tactics in their tracks and ensure you’re not pressured into signing away your rights.



A Good Lawyer Levels the Playing Field

Personal injury and wrongful death cases involve complex legal, medical, and financial issues. You’re not just trying to prove what happened — you’re trying to show how it impacted your life, and what that’s truly worth.

Without legal training, it’s almost impossible to accurately:

• Calculate long-term damages (like lost income or future medical costs)
• Navigate court procedures and filings
• Understand the value of a claim based on prior cases

An experienced attorney can negotiate from a position of strength — or take your case to court if needed.



Peace of Mind When You Need It Most

Perhaps most importantly, hiring a lawyer gives you space to focus on healing. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or grieving a loss, the last thing you need is to juggle legal forms, medical records, or tense calls with insurers.

Your attorney handles the heavy lifting, so you can focus on what matters: getting better, caring for your family, and finding a path forward.

Don’t Wait — Your Future Is Too Important

The sooner you act, the stronger your position. If you’ve been injured or lost someone due to negligence, don’t wait to find out if you might have a case — speak with a qualified attorney now and let them guide you from day one.

At Murphy Schmitt Hathaway, we’re not just here to explain the law — we’re here to remind you that you’re not alone. The path to resolution starts with a single call, and the right legal partner can make all the difference. Use the link below to schedule a consultation.