Frequently Asked Questions - Personal Injury
We have extensive experience working with people who have been injured and are pursuing compensation from the parties responsible for their injury. When someone is injured, it’s natural for them to have several questions about how they will be compensated for missed work, medical bills and their pain and suffering. We have compiled some of the most common questions we get from people who have been hurt in an accident and need a Wilkes-Barre personal injury lawyer. We hope the questions and answers below are helpful, but if you would like additional information, do not hesitate to contact us for a free initial consultation.
- How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
- How long do I have to file a claim?
- What if the injured person dies before bringing a lawsuit?
- What should I bring with me to my first visit with the lawyer?
- Should I accept a check from my insurance company?
How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
If you are injured and if your injury was someone else's fault, you very likely have a case against the person who was at fault. More likely, you have a case against the insurer of the person who was at fault. The first step is consulting a personal injury attorney to talk through your situation, how the accident happened and who you feel is responsible. Our injury lawyers can help you understand how Pennsylvania law applies to your situation and your options for pursuing compensation.
How long do I have to file a claim?
The state of Pennsylvania has a two-year statute of limitations from the time of your injury. Exceptions apply, such as the discovery rule, which may extend that time frame. It is best to consult with an attorney as soon as you can to ensure the best outcome possible.
What if the injured person dies before bringing a lawsuit?
When someone dies from their injuries, it is called a wrongful death. The administrator or executor of the decedent's estate can file a wrongful death suit against the responsible parties.
What should I bring with me to my first visit with the lawyer?
Before coming to the office, you should gather all the paperwork relating to your case. This should include police reports, medical records, bills, information about the parties involved, photographs and any other information you think may be pertinent. If you do not have any documentation, don't worry. Your lawyer can access the information if necessary.
Should I accept a check from my insurance company?
The goal of insurance companies is to pay out as little as possible. They will often offer you a check right away in the hope that you will accept it. This initial offer is usually very low, so you should not accept this check until you have met with an attorney to discuss how much you are actually entitled to.
A personal injury case can be very complex, with multiple parties involved. To ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to, it is best to meet with a skilled attorney.
Having a problem with getting compensation for a personal injury? Pennsylvania law firm solves it.
Attorney Angela Stevens is a full-service law firm. Our Kingston, PA office services the Wilkes-Barre area. We are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and evenings and weekends by appointment. Our firm serves the entire Northeastern Pennsylvania area, including Wilkes-Barre, Scranton and the Wyoming Valley.Feel free to call us toll free at 1-844-PA-SOLVE (1-844-727-6583), 570-718-4900 or contact us online to set up a free consultation to discuss your injury.