Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Law

Victims of negligence have the option to recover their losses through personal injury law. Accidents due to negligence are a rising problem in high-profile cities like Albany. People in Albany should be aware of personal injury laws because they might need them at any time. In addition, it is the only way to recover the losses. Filing a lawsuit is not enough; the victim needs to win the case to recover losses. Hiring personal injury lawyers in Albany is one of the best ways to ensure your case is successful. If you want to know more about personal injury law, here are some helpful FAQs that might get you started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Law

1. Do I have to hire an attorney?

Yes and no. You can denote yourself or hire a lawyer. If you go the self-representation route, be prepared for the possibility that you will not win your case—even if what happened was someone's fault—because there is no substitute for legal experience and specialized knowledge regarding trial preparation. Getting justice without a lawyer is possible, but it is often difficult for laypersons to succeed in the court system.

2. When can I file a lawsuit?

In a personal injury case, you have only a certain amount of time to file your claim. The deadline is known as the "statute of limitations" and varies by state. If you skip this deadline, there is zero you can do. The statutes of limitations varies by state, but they are always relatively short, so act quickly.

3. What should I do after an accident?

This depends on the situation and type of car accident that occurred. However, it is usually a good idea to wait and see if the other party is at fault. If they are indeed at fault for the accident, you can seek compensation for your losses after your medical bills have been paid. You may also want to see if their insurance carrier will pay for your losses.

4. Can I sue my health insurance company?

While it may seem like a good idea on its face, your healthcare provider isn't legally obligated to cover injuries caused by another driver's negligence or dangerous driving. You'll have better luck suing the other driver responsible for the wreck or their insurance carrier.

5. How can I get compensation for damages related to pain and suffering?

Non-specialized attorneys are usually not the best to hire if you have serious injuries. Cases are complicated and require a level of experience that only an experienced personal injury lawyer can provide. They can also help you with other potential legal issues, including filing a lawsuit against the negligent party, settling with your healthcare provider, or recovering from your injuries.

6. How long will a lawsuit take?

Depending on the complexity of your case, a lawsuit could take weeks to years. It's important to remember that court procedures, such as subpoenas, depositions, and other legal documentation, can delay the process. Of course, you may also need to prove that you suffered physical or emotional injuries due to another party's negligence.

7. Do I even have a case? 

This is a frequently asked question, and you may not have a case; even if you do, the claim may be too small to pursue. If it's a case with a high claim value, then be sure to retain an attorney to help you through the process from start to finish.

Personal injury laws are complex and vary from state to state. However, if you're considering filing a lawsuit after an accident, it is important that you get the right help. A good personal injury lawyer can help you know what to do next, and they will be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.