There are many ways that a personal injury case may unfold, but all of them start with an accident, resulting in injuries at the hands of another party’s negligence. Victims of these accidents stand to suffer injuries that impact them for significant periods, and, as a result, a person’s ability to live their life may be impacted immensely. Our personal injury lawyer victims depend on can provide representation and play an imperative role when they need it the most. Whether you were the victim of a car accident, bicycle accident, slip and fall, work-related accident, product liability, etc., it’s only natural to have questions for our team at Hurwitz, Whitcher & Molloy, LLP. It’s imperative to schedule a consultation so you might gain insight into the several questions you have.
What common mistakes might impact a personal injury claim?
Victims may inadvertently take steps that can be deeply harmful to the legal case, and as a result, victims may result in claim denials, lowered settlement values, and more. While a lawyer can help to prevent these missteps, it’s essential to be aware of common mistakes that can be profoundly impactful, including:
- Minimizing injuries
- Not seeking medical treatment
- Not following through with medical recommendations
- Posting to social media accounts
- Waiting too long to take legal action
- Not gathering the proper evidence
- Accepting the first settlement offer
What should a victim do if they are contacted by the defendant’s lawyer or insurance company?
Victims should always proceed carefully when an insurance adjuster or lawyer contacts them. Remember that the defendant’s lawyer will be looking to dispute the claim and prove that the injuries are less severe or the victim was partly responsible for the damages. The insurance adjuster may ask case questions that may seem benign, but anything victims say can severely impact their ability to receive compensation. It’s always best to refer to your personal injury lawyer when contacted by someone from the opposing side, as they can ensure that your case is safeguarded from anyone who may be looking to challenge the claim.
What is the statute of limitations for personal injuries in New York?
The statute of limitations is the length of time victims have from the date of the accident or upon the discovery of injuries to take legal action for compensation against the responsible party. The time frame varies from state to state, but the statute of limitations in New York is three years. Once this time frame expires, victims often lose their right to pursue compensation for damages. While there may be some exceptions, they are few and far between, and consulting with a lawyer to understand the options will be crucial for moving forward.
What support can a lawyer offer?
The legal system can be highly complicated, and victims often do not have the legal skills to plan for the unexpected turns that a case may take. Because of this, it’s vital to consider the services of a law firm as they can help victims to understand the road ahead, gain insight into the value of their claim and answer the many case questions victims may have about the path forward.
What is the cost of a personal injury lawyer?
The cost for legal representation can vary depending upon the type of case and the direction the case takes. For example, medical malpractice cases may take longer and be costlier before an outcome is reached. In addition, claims that take on the form of a lawsuit may be more expensive as they will require more resources. However, a lawyer can play an essential role in providing representation and a robust legal strategy for the case. When cases need assistance from a lawyer, legal fees will be involved, and it’s important to have upfront conversations regarding legal fees. However, it’s essential to be aware that many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they do not receive payment until they can procure a successful settlement from their clients.
While it may be possible to represent yourself in the wake of an accident, it may not be in your best interest. Our Buffalo NY personal injury lawyer can not only plan for all possible routes a case can take, but they can also help to secure a fair and favorable settlement. Contact Hurwitz, Whitcher & Molloy, LLP, before the clock runs out for more information about our services.