Learn some of the most important facts about filing a personal injury claim
If you’ve been hurt in an accident that was not your fault, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options when it comes to filing a personal injury claim and securing compensation. Here are some of the most important concepts to understand.
What Kind of Evidence Do I Need?
For a successful personal injury claim, you must be able to prove that someone else’s negligence caused you to suffer an injury. You will need evidence showing how your accident occurred, who was responsible, and how serious your resulting injuries were.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
In California, the statute of limitations on personal injury claims is two years. If you were hurt in an accident, you have two years from the date of the accident to file. If your injury was caused by exposure to a toxic substance, you have two years from the date your injury was discovered.
When Should I File My Claim?
While you should start preparing your personal injury claim as soon as possible after your accident, you may need to wait a while to actually file it. It is best to wait until you have reached the point of “maximum medical recovery” since this will ensure you know the full extent of your damages. In the case of a permanent injury, you will want to wait until your doctor is able to estimate the cost of your future damages.
How Much Is My Claim Worth?
Following a personal injury accident, you are entitled to compensation for all the ways the injury has affected your life. This may include compensation for current and future medical bills, lost income, lost earning power, and pain and suffering. While you can get a general idea of the value of your claim by totaling up your medical bills, for a more detailed estimate you should contact a personal injury attorney.
Do I Need a Personal Injury Attorney?
If you have suffered a serious injury, you need a personal injury attorney. In addition to guiding you through the process of filing a claim, your attorney can help document your damages and fight for you to receive maximum compensation for them. An attorney’s help is vital even if you hope to settle your case out of court, since your attorney will represent you in negotiations and ensure you do not accidentally accept an unfair or inadequate settlement offer.
How Do I Find a Good Attorney?
When looking for a personal injury attorney, the best thing to do is check their track record. You want an attorney who has successfully handled lots of personal injury claims just like yours. Also, be sure that the attorney offers contingency fee representation. This will ensure you can afford representation, since you will not be required to pay any attorney fees until after you receive your compensation.
If you are in need of a personal injury attorney, we encourage you to call The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 today for a free initial consultation.
