Personal Injury Law FAQs

 

Q: How do I know if I have a personal injury claim?

A: To file a personal injury claim, you must prove at least two things:

• That you have been injured; and

• That somebody else is at fault for your injury.

 

Sims & Bailey represents people who have been injured in the following types of cases:

• Automobile Accidents, Car Accidents, Motor Vehicle Accidents

• Truck Accidents

• Medical Malpractice

• Slips and Falls

• Workers’ Compensation

• Wrongful Death

• Dog Bites

 

Q: What if the accident is partially my fault?

A: You may still have a personal injury claim even if an accident or injury was partially your fault.

 

Q: Is there a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim?

A: Yes. A statute of limitations is a time period within which legal action must be brought. It varies by state. If the lawsuit or claim is not filed before the statutory deadline, the right to make a claim is lost forever.

 

Q: What should I do first if I have been hurt in an accident?

A: Get prompt medical treatment. An attorney can help protect your legal rights, but proper medical care should be your first priority.

We also suggest you take the following steps:

• Write down as much as you can about the accident itself. List injuries, expenses and lost wages.

• Take photographs as soon as possible. Include the scene of the accident, your injuries, and any property damage.

• Obtain the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all potential witnesses of the accident.

Contact an experienced personal injury attorney.

 

Q: What if I was hurt on somebody else’s property?

A: A property owner has a duty to protect members of the public from injury that may occur on their property. However, the nature and extent of that duty varies depending upon the facts of the situation and the location of the property.

 

Q: Should I cooperate with the insurance company?

A: We don’t advise it. The insurance company does not exist to protect you. It exists to make a profit. Remember, the claims adjuster works for the insurance company – it is their job to protect their own interests. Who is protecting yours?

 

Q: Do I need a lawyer?

A: A personal injury lawyer is focused on obtaining the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney at Sims & Bailey will:

• Investigate the circumstances in which you were injured

• Identify all negligent parties

• Interview any witnesses

• Gather evidence

• Investigate all sources of recovery