We understand how stressful this process can be, which is why we’ve put together a list of answers to the most frequently asked questions about personal injury cases. From determining whether you have a valid claim to understanding the compensation you may be entitled to, this guide will help clarify the legal process and empower you with the knowledge you need to move forward with confidence.
At The Sullivan Law Firm, we know that it can feel very stressful and confusing to navigate a personal injury case. If you are dealing with the results of a car accident or another type of injury, you likely have many questions. To help you feel more informed and in control, we’ve put together a list of answers to common questions about personal injury cases.
1. What Is a Personal Injury Case?
A personal injury case arises when someone gets hurt because another person acted negligently. Common examples include automobile accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, or injuries caused by defective products. The goal of a personal injury case is to seek compensation for the damages you’ve endured—both physical and emotional.
2. How Do I Know if I Have a Valid Personal Injury Case?
The validity of a personal injury claim depends on several factors. For your case to be viable, you typically must be able to show that:
If you’re unsure of whether you have a viable personal injury claim, The Sullivan Law Firm can review the details of your case and guide you through your legal options.
3. What Should I Do Immediately After a Personal Injury?
After an injury, the steps you take can greatly impact your case. Here’s what we recommend:
Your health and safety should always come first, but early legal advice can also be crucial to securing the compensation you deserve.
4. How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you don’t file within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation. However, there are certain circumstances that can either extend or shorten this deadline. To better understand how the statute of limitations may apply to your case, check out our detailed blog on the topic here.
5. How Is Fault Determined in a Personal Injury Case?
Fault is a critical element of any personal injury case, especially in automobile accidents. Determining who is at fault typically involves gathering evidence like police reports, witness statements, and, in some cases, expert testimony. At The Sullivan Law Firm, we work closely with our clients to compile strong evidence and advocate on their behalf, ensuring that the responsible party is held accountable.
6. Can I Still Receive Compensation If I’m Partly at Fault?
Even if you are partly to blame for the incident that caused your injuries, you might still receive compensation. In Georgia, you can recover damages from a negligent party as long as you were less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, the amount of your recovery will be reduced in accordance with the percentage of fault that the jury attributes to you at trial.
7. How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
The value of your personal injury case depends on several factors, including:
It’s impossible to give a precise number without understanding the specifics of your case, but The Sullivan Law Firm can offer a personalized assessment during a free consultation. We are committed to helping you recover the maximum compensation for your injuries.
8. What Types of Compensation Are Available in Personal Injury Cases?
In a personal injury case, there are generally three types of compensation available:
9. Will My Personal Injury Case Go to Trial?
Most personal injury cases are settled out of court, which can save time and reduce stress for all parties involved. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial. Rest assured that our attorneys at The Sullivan Law Firm are experienced in both negotiating settlements and representing clients in court, should litigation become necessary.
10. How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Personal Injury Case?
The timeline for resolving a personal injury case can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. On average, however, cases that settle out of court may be resolved in a matter of months, while those that go to trial can take longer––sometimes several years.
11. How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
At The Sullivan Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you don’t pay any legal fees upfront. Our fees are a percentage of the compensation you receive, and if we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us anything. This arrangement ensures that legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial status.
Navigating a personal injury case can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. The Sullivan Law Firm is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. If you have more questions or need legal advice, contact us today for a free consultation.
We handle personal injury cases all across Georgia. Insurance companies know us and our track record, so most cases settle without having to go to court.
