Six Things You Don’t Know About a Personal Injury Case
Personal injury cases can seem complicated at first glance if you don’t understand everything that goes into it. Whether you’ve found yourself in the middle of a personal injury case, or know a friend or family member who’s involved in one, there are several things you should know before you contact an accident attorney.
Personal injury cases can seem complicated at first glance if you don’t understand everything that goes into it. Whether you’ve found yourself in the middle of a personal injury case, or know a friend or family member who’s involved in one, there are several things you should know before you contact an accident attorney.
So, friends – let’s dig right in. Here are the top 6 things you likely don’t know about a personal injury case – but should:
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Physical evidence can make all the difference – Aside from statements from the insurance companies and doctors involved in the case, you should also present as much physical evidence of your injuries as you can. Take photos of the accident scene, of any injuries on your body, and even the road (in case of tire marks or wet weather conditions).
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You’re under a statute of limitations – All 50 states have a statute of limitations that determines how long you have to file a lawsuit after your injury. Filing after that time limit means your case will automatically be thrown out of court.
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Talk, talk, talk….when it comes to the doctor – Many times, people will advise you not to talk about the case you’re involved in, but when it comes to the doctor, you should always tell him or her exactly how you feel. Tell them about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and where exactly you’re hurting. The more you tell, the better they can diagnose you and help ensure you fully heal.
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You’ll need to sign a “Release of Claim” form – Upon settling your claim, you’ll need to sign a piece of paper called a “Release of Claim” form that says you won’t sue anyone as a result of your injuries. That’s why it’s extremely important to make sure you’re fully healed before settling.
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Only a small percentage of cases actually go to trial – Personal injury cases will begin with the discovery process in which lawyers from both sides begin gathering facts from written questions, documentation, witness interviews, etc. Thanks to the comprehensiveness of this process, a majority of cases are settled before they even go to trial.
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Settlements are based on several factors – The amount of money you get in your settlement depends on more than just your hospital bills. These damages often take into account lost wages and future wage loss, compensation for physical therapy and related expenses, and even physical disfigurement.
Whether it’s you or a friend or coworker involved in a personal injury case, take these factors into consideration. Hopefully, they’ll have a positive influence on the result of your case!
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