Personal injury law is often complex and difficult for the average person to understand. Not only that, laws vary by state so you can't always evaluate your case by a friend's experience. If you've been injured, the best way to understand your rights and whether you have a case to pursue is to talk to a personal injury attorney. Here are some things that might be helpful to know if you've delayed taking action on your claim.
You Might Still Have A Case Even If You've Delayed
It's best to consult with an attorney as soon as you can after you've been injured since details will be fresh in your mind and evidence will be easier to gather. However, if you decided not to talk to an attorney and now you regret that decision, it might not be too late. There's a statute of limitations on personal injury claims that's regulated by state law. As long as you're still within the time established by the state, it may be possible to pursue your case. Start by talking with an attorney to see how much time remains for you to take action and what documents, receipts, and records you'll need to find to support your case.
You'll Probably Seek Compensation From An Insurance Company
If you put off taking action because you were injured on a friend's property or because you knew the negligent person didn't have much money, then you may want to rethink your decision. Your attorney will determine who is responsible for paying your medical bills or lost wages. In many cases, it's the insurance company your friend has a policy with. Accidents on private property are often covered under a homeowner's policy and accidents in cars are usually covered by an automobile policy. Your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to get a fair settlement that covers your medical costs. If you've been offered a payout from an insurance company, it's a good idea to hire an attorney before you accept it to make sure you're being treated fairly.
You Won't Always Go To Court
If you've put off pursuing a personal injury case because you dread the idea of going to court, then talking to an attorney can put your mind at ease. Personal injury cases don't always go to court. The first step is to reach an agreement on a settlement. Reaching an agreement out of court is a better situation for both sides, but your attorney will make sure the settlement provides you with a fair compensation for your injuries and lost wages. It's not always possible to know ahead of time if a case will end up in court because it depends on how the insurance company responds. However, you shouldn't let fear of going to court stop you from pursuing a case since there's a good chance your attorney can settle your case without going to trial.
For more information, reach out to law firms like the Johnson Motinger Greenwood Law Firm.
After I was with some people who robbed a store, I was placed in a really bad situation. I was being accused of committing the bulk of the crime, but I knew I was innocent. I started working with a criminal attorney for help, and it was the difference I needed to prove my innocence. I decided to start a new blog that centered around defending yourself, because whether you like it or not, it may be necessary from time to time. Check out these posts for great information on working with lawyers when you need to fight for your rights in court.