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Personal Injury FAQ

Abogado de Lesiones Personales

  1. What is a personal injury lawyer?

An abogado de lesiones personales is a legal professional who specializes in providing legal representation to individuals who have been physically, emotionally, or financially harmed due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party.

  1. When should I consult a personal injury lawyer?

If you’ve suffered injuries or damages in an accident, such as a car crash, slip and fall, medical malpractice, or workplace incident, you should consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Early consultation can help preserve evidence, ensure timely filing of claims, and maximize your chances of receiving compensation.

  1. How can a personal injury lawyer help me?

A personal injury lawyer can guide you through the legal process, investigate the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary. They aim to secure fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

  1. Do I need to pay upfront for a personal injury lawyer’s services?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to pay upfront fees. Instead, your lawyer will receive a percentage of the compensation you’re awarded. If your case isn’t successful, you generally won’t owe any legal fees.

  1. How is negligence determined in a personal injury case?

Negligence involves proving that the responsible party failed to act with reasonable care, resulting in your injuries. To establish negligence, your lawyer will need to demonstrate four elements: duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages.

  1. What types of compensation can I receive?

Compensation, also known as damages, can cover various aspects of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages meant to punish the negligent party.

  1. Should I accept the insurance company’s initial settlement offer?

It’s generally advisable not to accept the first settlement offer from an insurance company without consulting your personal injury lawyer. Initial offers may not adequately cover your long-term expenses and damages. A lawyer such as those at Unidos Legales can help negotiate a fairer settlement or advise you to pursue legal action if needed.

  1. How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?

The statute of limitations varies depending on the jurisdiction and the type of case. It’s crucial to consult a personal injury lawyer promptly to ensure you meet the applicable deadlines. Failing to file within the specified time frame could result in losing your right to compensation.

  1. Can I still pursue a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, in many cases. Some jurisdictions follow comparative negligence laws, which allow you to seek compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident. However, your awarded amount might be reduced based on your degree of fault.

  1. How do I choose the right personal injury lawyer for my case?

When selecting a personal injury lawyer, consider factors such as their experience, specialization in personal injury law, track record of successful cases, communication style, and commitment to your case. Many offer free initial consultations, allowing you to assess whether they’re a good fit for your needs.

  1. What if the negligent party doesn’t have insurance?

If the responsible party is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance policy might have provisions to cover such situations. Consulting a personal injury lawyer can help you explore available options, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

  1. How long does a personal injury case typically take?

The duration of a personal injury case can vary widely based on factors like the complexity of the case, negotiations, court availability, and more. Some cases might settle in a few months, while others could take years if they go to trial.

Contact a personal injury lawyer to start your journey toward justice and compensation!