If you've been hurt and someone else was the cause of your injury, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Navigating the legal aspects of a personal injury suit can be confusing, so it's best to seek out a personal injury attorney. Here are four things you should know about hiring a personal injury lawyer:

1. You need a lawyer if you were badly injured.

It might be tempting to handle your personal injury case on your own, especially if you're hurt and not feeling your best. Hiring a lawyer can sound like just one more arduous task. However, it's extremely important to hire a personal injury attorney if you were seriously injured. With severe injuries come high medical costs, and you don't want to end up paying those bills yourself if you don't have to. A lawyer can help you get the best possible outcome in your case.

2. You can probably afford it.

When you hear the word "lawyer," you might immediately begin thinking of the cost involved. Many people have the wrong idea of the costs involved in hiring a lawyer. While lawyers can be expensive, they aren't always. According to NOLO, many personal injury attorneys work on contingency, which means that you only pay them when they win your case. This can help to defray your costs, since you can use some of the money won in your lawsuit to compensate your attorney.

3. You need to communicate with your lawyer.

Your attorney's primary job is to represent you in court, but they should also help you understand the legal process. They can guide you through the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit and help you gather all the necessary evidence you'll need to make your case before a judge. While your lawyer can advise you and let you know what they need from you, you have to listen and comply with their requests. Ultimately, you need to trust your lawyer so you can work together effectively.

4. You can appeal.

When you're involved in a personal injury lawsuit, the last thing you want to hear is that your claim was denied. Unfortunately, this is a possibility. A judge can decide to find in the defendant's favor for any number of reasons, but often the reason is insufficient evidence. Rest assured, you still have options if you lose your personal injury judgment. One option is to make an appeal to a higher court. If you'd like to pursue this option, your lawyer can help you through the process.