Choosing a Personal Injury Lawyer

A Personal Injury Lawyer helps individuals injured in accidents caused by the negligent actions of another person or company. Whether your injuries were the result of a car crash, construction accident or medical malpractice, personal injury law allows you to pursue monetary compensation for your losses. While you may feel overwhelmed after an accident, having a legal advisor by your side can help ensure that all of your rights are protected and you receive the full amount you deserve for your losses.

A personal injury lawyer can review your situation and provide an accurate assessment of the strength of your case. They will examine police reports, interview witnesses, collect evidence and consult with medical experts. They will also investigate your case to establish liability. To win a personal injury case, you must show that the defendant failed to exercise a duty of care and caused your injuries. You must also demonstrate that your injuries are directly related to the incident and you have suffered damages that can be compensated.

If you are awarded damages, your attorney will work with the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf in court. They will be well-versed in the relevant personal injury laws and will prepare for trial, if necessary.

When choosing a personal injury lawyer, be sure to discuss fees with them early on. Personal injury lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they are only paid when they win your case. Alternatively, some attorneys charge hourly rates for their services.

The time limit for filing a personal injury claim is limited, so it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. In addition, the evidence in your case will be most valuable when it is fresh, so make sure to gather and submit any documents or information quickly.

Proving fault in a personal injury case can be challenging, but an experienced New York personal injury lawyer will meticulously evaluate your accident details and build a strong case for you. They will determine if you have suffered a serious injury, which is defined as a permanent loss of function of a body part or significant disfigurement. They will also be able to show that the defendant was negligent in causing your accident.

New York is a no-fault state, so you will not be awarded damages from the at-fault driver in a car accident. However, you can seek compensation from the insurance company of anyone who caused you a serious injury through their negligence. Generally, you will be awarded economic damages such as medical expenses, lost wages and property damage, as well as non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. In rare cases, you may be awarded punitive damages. These are designed to punish the defendant and deter them from committing similar acts in the future.