Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Personal Injury
Personal injury law is a complex area of legal practice, involving a number of specialties. Plus, laws vary by location and are subject to change. The frequently asked questions below are intended to help the public understand the basics of personal injury law.
How do I know if I have a valid personal injury claim?
If you suffered a legally recognized injury to your person or your property and it was someone else’s fault, you may have a personal injury claim. Your injury can be physical, but it doesn’t have to be. The injury could be to your psyche, your reputation, or your privacy, for example.
Should I choose a lawyer who specializes in situations like mine?
That’s not a bad idea. Personal injury laws are complex and change all the time, so a lawyer with specific expertise in medical malpractice, product liability, or toxic torts, for example, may be better able to represent you.
Will the court punish the person who caused my injury or damaged my property?
No. Personal injury cases are civil cases, which (with few exceptions) don’t involve punishment such as fines or imprisonment.
Do I have to file my personal injury claim within a certain amount of time?
Yes. Each state has a statute of limitations that governs how long you have to file after the incident.
What does it cost to bring a personal injury lawsuit?
Most personal injury lawyers charge on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay a percentage of what you receive if you win. If you don’t win you don’t pay the lawyer’s fee, but you will have to pay medical experts and investigators as well as court filing fees and other expenses.
How do I get my money if I win?
Even if the judge or jury awards you damages, you may have to take legal action to actually collect your money, especially if the defendant is uninsured or underinsured. You may, for example, foreclose on the defendant’s property, garnish his or her wages, or initiate collection procedures.
What are the benefits of a structured settlement?
A structured settlement means the damages are paid over time rather than in one lump payment. Structured settlements help plaintiffs avoid tax liability, especially on large sums, and ensure that plaintiffs continue to receive money over a period of time.
For more information on auto accident lawsuits, motorcycle accident lawsuits, large truck accident lawsuits, wrongful death lawsuits, slip and fall accident lawsuits, and more, it is important to speak with trained Philadelphia personal injury attorneys.