Navigating the personal injury claim process after a serious accident that left you injured can feel overwhelming. no matter the kind of accident you were involved in, you need to understand the lawsuit process to make sure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. If you want to pursue a legal claim, visit this page to know why you need strong representation. Keep reading to learn more about the personal injury claim process:
When to File a Lawsuit
Before you file a lawsuit, ensure you have a personal injury in the first place. Injuries can vary and may include physical harm like spinal cord damage or broken and fractured bones or psychological injuries such as stress and trauma. If your injury resulted from another party’s negligence, you have a valid claim.
When filing an injury lawsuit, timing is everything. Generally, you need to file a claim as soon as possible following the injury, so you can have enough time to collect evidence and testimonies from witnesses. But every case is different and many factors may affect your decision. In Kentucky, you should file a lawsuit within one year from the date of injury. Filing beyond this deadline can mean losing your chance to recover compensation for your injuries.
Steps Involved in Filing a Lawsuit
When you file a personal injury lawsuit, you should hire a skilled attorney to guide you. The lawyer can navigate the case’s complexities with you, collect evidence, handle negotiations with the other party, and represent you in trial. A great attorney can increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome in your case.
In addition, your attorney will investigate your case and gather evidence such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements to strengthen your case. They will review your medical records, so they can understand how seriously your injuries will affect your life. Once your attorney has compiled all the necessary information, they can file a lawsuit for you. Then, the discovery process begins. This is when both parties involved exchange relevant information. Before your case goes to court, you and the other party can negotiate a settlement first. Your attorney will try to reach an agreement with the at-fault party ensuring you are adequately compensated for your injuries. However, if both parties cannot agree on a settlement, your case should go to trial. In this case, your attorney will argue your case before a judge or jury, who will decide whether or not you deserve compensation and how much.