Answers to Common Questions After an Accident or Injury
Dealing with an injury is hard enough. Figuring out what to do next shouldn’t make it harder. To help you understand your rights and options, we’ve put together answers to the questions we often hear from injured clients.
If you still have questions after reading, we’re just a call or click away. Contact us or call us anytime at 704-897-0490 for a free consultation.
Note: This information is general and not legal advice. We don’t form an attorney-client relationship until we’ve reviewed your situation and entered into a signed agreement.
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What is a personal injury claim?
A personal injury claim is a legal process in which an individual seeks compensation for injuries sustained due to someone else’s negligence or intentional harm. Common personal injury cases based on negligence include car accidents, slip and falls, workplace injuries, medical malpractice, and more. Common personal injury claims based on intentional harm can include assault and battery, among others.
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How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, or if they injured you intentionally, you might have a valid personal injury case. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the ability to prove liability are all important. We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your situation and help determine whether you have a case. Call us (anytime, day or night) at 704-897-0490 for your free consultation.
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What types of accidents can lead to personal injury claims?
Personal injury claims can arise from a wide variety of incidents, including:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Product liability
- Dog bites
- Defective medical devices
- Wrongful death
If you’ve been injured in any type of accident caused by someone else’s actions, you may be entitled to compensation. Schedule your consultation now for a free evaluation: 704-897-0490
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How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?
Calculating the statute of limitations can be daunting, even for legal professionals. It’s best not to try to calculate it for yourself but to allow experienced counsel to do that for you. The time for filing a personal injury claim varies by state, by the type of accident, and sometimes by the identity of the defendant (for example, if it’s the state or a governmental entity, then the tort claims act or other immunity laws could alter the statute of limitations analysis).
In addition to the statute of limitations, there are often “statutes of repose” that set outer limits on when claims can be filed, even if they would otherwise be timely under the statute of limitations. Again, this can be a complicated area of law, and the consequences of being wrong are dire: dismissing your case with no ability to re-file. So, contacting an attorney as soon as possible is important to ensure your rights are protected. Call us now (anytime, day or night) at 704-897-0490 for your free consultation.
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How much is my personal injury claim worth?
The value of your claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injury, medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the impact on your life. Every case is unique, and we can help assess the potential value of your claim during your free consultation.
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What should I do immediately after an accident?
After an accident, it’s essential to:
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Immediate medical treatment may be necessary in many cases to establish the necessary causal connection between the event and the injuries.
- Document the scene – Take photos and gather any evidence of the accident.
- Get contact information – Exchange information with the other party and any witnesses.
- Notify the authorities – Report the incident to the police if applicable.
- Contact a lawyer – An experienced attorney can guide you through the process and help protect your rights. Call us now (anytime, day or night) at 704-897-0490 for your free consultation.
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Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury claim?
While having a lawyer is not required, hiring one can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Personal injury law can be complex, and an experienced lawyer can handle negotiations, insurance companies, and legal procedures on your behalf, allowing you to focus on recovery.
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How much will it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?
We handle personal injury claims on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any upfront fees. We only get paid if you win your case, typically as a percentage of the settlement or verdict. If we don’t win, you don’t owe us anything. This ensures that we’re always motivated to get you the best possible outcome.
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How long will my personal injury case take?
The length of a personal injury case can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether the case is settled or goes to trial. Some cases may settle in a few months, while others may take a year or longer. Our team will work to resolve your case as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.
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Will my case go to trial?
Not all personal injury cases go to trial. In fact, most cases are settled out of court through negotiations with the responsible party’s insurance company. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and advocate for your rights.
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What compensation can I receive from a personal injury claim?
Compensation in a personal injury case may include:
- Medical expenses – Past and future treatment costs.
- Lost wages – Compensation for time missed from work due to your injury.
- Pain and suffering – Emotional distress and physical pain.
- Property damage – Costs related to vehicle repairs or other property damage.
- Punitive damages – In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm.
Our goal is to ensure you receive compensation that fully covers your financial losses and provides justice for your pain and suffering.
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What if the insurance company offers me a settlement?
Before accepting any settlement offer, it’s important to consult with an attorney. Insurance companies often offer settlements that may not fully cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Our lawyers can help assess whether the offer is fair and ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
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Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
In many states, you can still pursue a personal injury claim if you were partially at fault, but your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. This is known as comparative negligence. In North Carolina, one of only a few jurisdictions to retain the doctrine of “contributory negligence,” that answer may be different.
It will take careful analysis to answer that question based on the particular facts of each case. Our team can help determine how the laws in your state may apply to your case. Call us now (anytime, day or night) at 704-897-0490 for your free consultation.
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What is the process for filing a personal injury claim?
The general process for filing a personal injury claim includes:
- Initial Consultation – Meet with an attorney to discuss your case. You can call us for that now (anytime, day or night): 704-897-0490 for your free consultation.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering – Your attorney will gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and consult experts if necessary.
- Negotiation – Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit (if necessary) – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit and take the case to court.
- Settlement or Verdict – The case will either settle out of court, or a judge or jury will make a decision.
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How can I get started with my personal injury claim?
To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers, call us now (anytime, day or night) at 704-897-0490 or schedule a consultation with us. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the process every step of the way.
