It can be difficult to know whether or not it’s time to speak with a lawyer. In fact, many people “let go” of cases that could potentially be handled by lawyers, simply because they don’t understand the full extent of their rights. People are made to feel as if they’re making something out of nothing when they speak with a lawyer — or even that they’re somehow whining. However, you have the right to speak with a lawyer if you want to; and having that conversation could open the door to you receiving what you’re owed. Let’s look into what personal injury law really covers, as well as when it might be a good idea to speak with a lawyer.
What Is Personal Injury Law?
Although many of us think of physical injuries when we imagine personal injury law, in fact the legal standards cover everything from an injury to the body to emotional damage. It’s estimated that about 52% of all personal injury lawsuits occur due to traffic accidents. However, another 15% of all personal injury lawsuits occur due to medical malpractice. Personal injury law is so often applied to car accidents in part because there is usually one party that is at fault, or more at fault, in a car accident. Medical malpractice would usually hold the hospital, practice, or medical professionals responsible when a medical procedure or treatment is handled incorrectly. There are, of course, other types of incidents to which personal injury law extends. Many people use personal injury laws pursue employers following workplace incidents. Tripping accidents and assault claims can also fall under personal injury law, as can product defect incidents. Generally speaking, there are a number of different options on the table when it comes to personal injury law. It’s not that there are no limits regarding what can be pursued; there are. Nevada, for example, has a limitation of two years regarding the amount of time that is allowed to pass before personal injury lawsuits can no longer be pursued. But the value of a personal injury lawsuit must first be discussed with a lawyer.
Why Do People Pursue Personal Injury Lawsuits?
One of the major misconceptions often spread about personal injury lawsuits is that they are pursued for purely financial reasons. In the case of workplace accidents, many employees end up unable to work for an extended period of time, or perhaps unable to work in the future. Quite often, they are not able to return to the same positions they once held. This means that potentially years’ worth of money is lost, and when an employer refuses to take responsibility for the circumstances that led to this loss of money, they must be held responsible in other ways. The same can be said for medical malpractice; in some cases, these incidents can even result in death. Ultimately, cases like these must be handled, because there must be some level of responsibility held.
When Should I Speak With A Lawyer?
You could pursue a personal injury lawsuit without a lawyer — but to do so would likely result in the loss of money. About 96% of all personal injury cases are settled pre-trial. A settlement pre-trial means investing less time and money. Having a lawyer on your side who can handle the specifics of the case, while also expediting the process, is a major relief.
How Do I Determine Which Lawyer I Work With?
When it comes to choosing an accident attorney, keep in mind that while many lawyers work with personal injury cases, many have experience in more specific areas. Keep that in mind when choosing your lawyer, and discuss your ultimate goals with them. The right lawyer is going to be the one that is ready to dedicate themselves to your case, work with you, and set realistic expectations. While you should focus on your potential attorney’s track record as well, don’t overlook those factors.
Don’t feel guilty about hiring a personal injury lawyer. You deserve to have your rights represented, and the opportunity to hold those that injured you accountable. Speak with a lawyer today.