If you have been injured, it is understandable that legal action may not be the first thing on your mind. Your sights will likely have turned first to seeking medical attention for your injuries and trying to get your life back to normal. Depending on the severity of your injuries, recovery may take quite some time – so when is the right time to call a lawyer?
With so many physical, emotional, and financial burdens placed on accident victims, it is important to know that there is help available. Personal injury lawsuits can allow injured people to pursue compensation from the person or other responsible party who caused their accident through some form of negligence.
While the circumstances surrounding each case are different, common types of damages recoverable in personal injury suits include:
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
However, it is important for accident victims to be aware that there are time limits when it comes to filing personal injury claims. Each state has their own statute of limitations outlining how long after an accident a lawsuit can be brought before the victim loses their right to sue. In California, the statute of limitations allows victims only two years to file a complaint. While this may seem like a long time, it is extremely important for accident victims to seek counsel as soon as possible to ensure that there is enough time to properly investigate a case and pursue maximum compensation.
Other Things To Remember About Accident Claims
You may not think you need a lawyer after an accident – after all, isn't that what insurance companies are for? Think again – insurance companies are not in the business of giving people money. In fact, they routinely try to diminish claims by downplaying the severity of the injuries involved, deflecting blame onto injured people, or attempting to settle claims quickly before the injured person fully understands the scope of their injuries.
If you have been involved in an accident and have been seriously injured, do not give any statements to anyone other than the police before contacting a lawyer. Unlike insurance adjusters, the goal of an attorney is to maximize the value of your case so that you obtain the highest compensation possible after an accident.
Contingency Fee Guarantee: No Recovery, No Costs
When it comes to paying medical bills and making up for income you have lost during recovery, it does not benefit you to jump at the first offer an insurance adjusted throws at you – let an experienced attorney work for you!
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident or other accident, please contact a Modesto personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis. Consultations are FREE!