Most people only file one, if any, personal injury claim in their lifetime. Because of that, it’s likely that you don’t know what you’re going to need to do to get through your case. In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions around personal injury and accident law.
How do I even know that it’s a personal injury case?
A personal injury case is defined as a case where someone has been injured due to neglect or negligence in a particular situation. For example, if you fall because of wet floors in a grocery store, or you’re injured at work, then you may be able to file a personal injury case.
Obviously, those examples really simplify what goes on in a personal injury case. It’s much more nuanced, and a professional can help you sort things out as to whether or not it’s going to be a case that you are able to pursue in court or via mediation.
When should I contact a personal injury lawyer?
The best time to contact a Miami Lakes personal injury attorney, or one in your area, is when you believe you have a case.
Many personal injury attorneys will offer low-cost or free consultations, where they talk with you about your case and help you to sort out the details. Then, they’ll be able to determine if you have a case, and give you advice as to whether you should pursue or let it go.
How long do I have to file my claim?
This depends on the state that you reside in. Different states have different statutes of limitation when it comes to how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. For example, in Florida, you have four years from the time of the accident that you’re able to file a lawsuit. Other states, like Pennsylvania and Alabama, only allow for 2 years.
More often than not, you want to go by a “the sooner, the better” approach to your case. It’s much easier for you and your lawyer to take care of your case if it’s closer to the date that you got injured. There will be less doubt about what happened and it’s going to be much simpler to find the appropriate proof of fault related to your injuries.
What if I’m partially at fault for my injury?
The answer to this depends on the state that you live in. In some cases, if you have any fault at all, then you cannot file a claim. Other states allow for you to file a personal injury claim if you have less than half of the fault involved, which your personal injury lawyer can assist you with determining.
If you have any other questions about your options, research an injury lawyer and get a consultation. They’ll be able to answer your questions and help you to determine what steps you need to take in order to get the help you need after an accident.