Buffalo Personal Injury FAQ
Personal injury lawsuits in Buffalo can be complicated, especially if you’ve never been involved in one. There are many different factors that contribute to the success of a personal injury lawsuit, and there are also several common questions people have when they are considering filing one.
The lawyers at Brown Chiari LLP can help with any questions or issues that may arise as you navigate a personal injury claim. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a personal injury lawsuit?
Personal injury cases are lawsuits brought against an individual, business, or corporation that caused harm to another person. They can be filed in civil courts, which have jurisdiction over non-criminal cases affecting individuals’ rights and property interests. Examples include:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Birth injuries
- Nursing home abuse
- Medical malpractice
- Wrongful death
How do I know if I have a case?
If the accident was not your fault and you were injured, then you may have a case. When another party is acting recklessly or even intentionally trying to harm you, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
If you are unsure, call our office for a free consultation. We would be happy to discuss your situation and help you determine your next steps for compensation.
What damages can I recover in a Buffalo personal injury lawsuit?
In a personal injury lawsuit, you can seek financial reimbursement for the following types of damages:
- Medical expenses, including any bills incurred before and after the accident
- Lost wages from being unable to work due to your injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
How do I get medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses paid?
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and the at-fault party had insurance, you can file a claim directly with them. A personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive all the money that’s due to you and ensure that insurers don’t deny or delay your claim.
If the insurance company refuses to pay or offers a settlement for less than what you really deserve or if you were injured in a different type of accident, you may have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Buffalo and take them to court. Your attorney can guide you through your case, no matter how complex, and help you get the compensation you’re due.
How do I know what my personal injury claim is worth?
The amount of money you can claim in your lawsuit will depend on the extent of your injuries and how long they last. You may need to consult with an attorney who has experience with cases like yours.
Your attorney can tell you if the person or entity responsible for causing the accident will likely accept responsibility for their actions and how much compensation would be fair in your case. Your personal injury lawyer has a formula that helps calculate these damages.
What happens if I’m in a car accident and the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, there are still a number of ways to get compensation.
You can still sue the driver directly, even if they don’t have insurance. Your Buffalo personal injury attorney will help find out whether the other driver has any assets, such as property or business interests, that could serve as collateral for your claim.
In other cases, you may have grounds to take action through your own insurance company. Talk to your lawyer about your best options for compensation.
What is contributory negligence?
In New York, any plaintiff who accepts contributory negligence may recover less than they would otherwise have been entitled to. Contributory negligence reduces the damages you receive based on the percentage of fault you accept. Thus, if you may have been partially liable for your own injuries, contact a personal injury lawyer immediately to discuss your case.
A legal professional can find the best way for you to handle your claim and get you the most money possible. If you have questions or concerns about the details of your claim, reach out for guidance.
How much time do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?
You have a certain amount of time to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident or injury. This time is called the statute of limitations, and in New York, it is three years from the date of your accident. If you don’t file in time, then your claim could be barred from compensation.
Have Questions? Reach Out to a Lawyer
When you’re hurt in a serious accident, you may have many questions that leave you struggling to recover. It can be confusing, painful, and difficult to get the funds you’re due.
Fortunately, you have options. Our lawyers are prepared to answer your questions over a free consultation. If you’re ready to take action, contact Brown Chiari LLP as soon as possible after your accident. Call 716-681-7190 or fill out our online form below.
