Personal Injury Lawsuits

When contemplating a personal injury lawsuit, you are likely to have questions about how the legal process works. This article addresses some of the more commonly asked questions about personal injury lawsuits.

How can I determine if I have a personal injury case?

A personal injury attorney can best assess your case to determine if you may have a valid personal injury claim. A lawyer can walk you through the facts of your case and determine not only if you suffered damages, but also if another party's negligent actions caused those damages. If you suspect that you or your loved one was injured as a result of negligence, such as in cases involving auto accidents, medical malpractice, or product liability, an attorney can help you determine the best course of action to pursue.

What is negligence?

Under the law, an individual is expected to act with reasonable care. If an individual does not exercise reasonable care in a particular situation, and another party suffers injury or damages as a result, his or her actions may be considered negligent. As an injured party in a personal injury case, you will have to show that the defendant was negligent and that his or her negligence caused your injury.

When should I contact a lawyer?

There are specific deadlines for filing personal injury claims, so the best time to contact an attorney is immediately following your accident or injury. Generally, the statute of limitations is between one and four years from the date of the incident, but it can vary from state to state and based on additional factors related to your claim. Even if you are within this period, receiving the right legal advice in a timely manner can make all the difference between winning and losing your case.

What type of compensation may I be eligible for?

There is no simple way to determine compensation for a personal injury claim because several factors are considered when assessing damages. However, most personal injury victims are entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to their injury.