You may wonder what to do next if you have been injured in an accident. Personal injury lawyers are the people who can help answer these questions and get started on your road to recovery. This blog post will answer ten common questions that people often ask personal injury lawyers. This information will be helpful for you if you are considering hiring a lawyer after an accident.
1. What kind of cases do personal injury lawyers handle?
Personal injury lawyers specialize in pursuing legal action for individuals injured due to another party’s negligence or carelessness. Personal injury lawyers handle common cases: car accidents, slip and falls, premises liability, product liability, medical malpractice, and wrongful death.
2. What is the statute of limitations when filing?
The statute of limitations is the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident occurs. The specific length of time depends on your state and the type of case, but it can range from one year to five years. It is important to consult with us as soon as possible after an accident to ensure your case is filed appropriately.
3. How much will it cost?
Most personal injury attorneys get paid once they receive a settlement or court award. Generally, you can expect to pay around one-third of any settlement or court award you receive in attorney’s fees. Personal injury lawyers also typically require their clients to pay costs associated with preparing and filing a lawsuit, such as filing fees and expert witness fees.
4. What evidence is needed for a personal injury case?
To pursue a successful personal injury case, you need to prove that the other party was negligent and caused your injury. Evidence may include medical records, police reports, witness testimonies, photos or video of the scene, and testimony from experts like doctors or engineers. Your lawyer can help you identify any necessary evidence and gather it for your case.
5. How long will it take to resolve a personal injury case?
Resolving a personal injury case depends on several factors, including the complexity and severity of your injuries and your case. Generally speaking, most cases are resolved within one year, but some can take longer. Your lawyer can provide an estimate of how long your particular case is likely to take.
6. What is the difference between a settlement and a court award?
A settlement is an agreement between you and the other party to resolve your case without going to trial. On the other hand, a court award is decided by a judge or jury after you have gone through the legal process of filing a lawsuit. Settlements are generally faster and less costly than pursuing a trial and may offer more favorable outcomes for both parties involved.
7. Can I sue for pain and suffering?
Yes, receiving compensation for pain and suffering as part of your injury claim is possible. Pain and suffering damages cover physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, loss of consortium, disfigurement, and disability. Your lawyer can provide more information about how to pursue pain and suffering damages in your particular case.
8. How much compensation can I expect for my injury claim?
The amount of compensation that you may be entitled to depend on the type of accident, the severity of your injuries, any expenses related to your medical care, and other factors. Your lawyer will be able to assess your case and provide an estimate of potential compensation that you may be eligible for.
9. What if I am partially at fault for the accident?
In some cases, both parties involved in an accident may be found partially at fault. However, many states follow a “comparative negligence” rule, which means that if you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. Your lawyer can explain how this rule applies in your state and guide you in pursuing a personal injury claim.
10. What happens if I disagree with the settlement offer?
If you do not accept a settlement offer from the other party, your case may proceed to trial. At trial, a judge or jury will decide whether or not you should receive any compensation for your injuries. However, it is important to note that going to trial carries certain risks, and there is no guarantee that you will receive a favorable outcome. Your lawyer can explain all of your options and discuss the pros and cons of each so that you can make an informed decision.
The answers to these questions are just the beginning of what you should know about personal injury law. Consult with a knowledgeable lawyer for more detailed information about your rights and to ensure that you receive the best outcome possible in your case. You can get the compensation you deserve for your injuries with the correct representation.
