Personal injury cases can be traumatic experiences, both physically and emotionally. When you suffer harm due to someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to seek compensation for your injuries. However, the process of obtaining compensation can be challenging and overwhelming. In Pennsylvania, there are steps you can take to ensure that you are fairly compensated in a personal injury case.
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Understanding Personal Injury Law in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s personal injury law deals with cases in which one party suffers harm due to another person’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing. The legal system provides financial compensation or remedy to those who have been injured.
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury case is two years from the date of the incident. After this time frame, the injured party cannot pursue a claim. Therefore, it is essential to take immediate action and consult a personal injury lawyer shortly after the incident.
Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
One of the most crucial steps you can take to ensure that you are fairly compensated in a personal injury case is hiring a qualified personal injury lawyer. A competent personal injury attorney will assess the case, determine whether you have a valid claim, and help you get the compensation you are entitled to.
An experienced attorney can also help you document the incident, gather evidence, and analyze the facts. Moreover, they can negotiate with the insurance companies, deal with settlement offers, and represent you in court if necessary.
Documenting Your Injuries
Your medical records are crucial evidence in a personal injury case. It is essential to seek immediate medical attention following an accident and document your injuries. Your physician should provide you with detailed examinations, diagnose your conditions and prescribe the necessary treatment. You must also keep track of all your medical bills and receipts, as they will be used to calculate the compensation you are entitled to.
Evaluating Your Case
When evaluating your case, your personal injury lawyer will consider several factors, such as medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and potential future losses. You should provide your attorney with all the relevant information about your injury and its effects on your life.
Understanding Comparative Negligence
Pennsylvania follows the comparative negligence rule, which means that multiple parties can share fault for an incident, and their percentage of fault can affect the compensation amount. Suppose you were partially responsible for the accident, which caused your injury. In that case, your compensation amount may be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and awarded $10,000 in compensation, you would receive $8,000.
Settlements vs. Trials
Personal injury cases can either be settled outside of court or go through a trial. Settling outside of court means that both parties agree to a certain amount of compensation without going to trial. This type of agreement is generally quicker and less expensive. However, settlements are not always in the injured party’s best interest. Therefore, it’s important to consult with your lawyer before agreeing to any settlement.
Going to trial is often the best option for injured parties to obtain fair compensation. The injured party may present evidence and argue their case before a judge or jury. Trials offer a potentially higher compensation amount, but they can also be more time consuming and expensive.
Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer in Pennsylvania
If you have suffered a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you are entitled to compensation. However, the process of obtaining fair compensation can be challenging. It’s essential to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected.
Don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer in Pennsylvania. They can evaluate your case, advise you of your legal rights, and work tirelessly to obtain the compensation you deserve.