Injuries from vehicle accidents, dog bites, or slip-and-falls can result in significant medical expenses. Fortunately, a personal injury attorney can offer assistance if you experience such situations by pursuing a claim to recoup the costs. If you're considering getting their help, here’s a closer look at what to expect from the process. 

A Guide to Personal Injury Claims

What injuries qualify for a case?

A key component of a personal injury case is negligence. As long as this element is involved, you can request compensation for an injury. To prove negligence, an attorney will outline that the defendant failed to meet their legal duty of care. For example, a business that failed to mark wet flooring or a speeding driver can be held liable for the expenses related to injuries that developed due to their actions.

What’s involved in the process? 

Typically, a claim is filed with the other party’s insurance company first. If they fail to approve the suit or negotiate, then an official complaint is filed with the court. Then, a summons gets sent to the other parties involved. At this point, both sides enter into a negotiation process and work towards a settlement amount. The personal injury attorney will proceed to a court trial if an agreement isn’t found.

What evidence does a personal injury attorney need?

Building a solid case increases the chances of settling or helps convince the jury to side with the victim if the case goes to court. For these reasons, you must provide as much information about the incident as possible to your attorney.

Along with your personal experience, contact information for witnesses, copies of medical bills, and paystubs are all valuable items. The attorney could also request any photos or videos taken at the scene and source surveillance footage, if applicable. 

How much is my case worth? 

Every personal injury case is unique. To determine a starting point for damages, your attorney will evaluate the total potential costs of the incident. This involves all medical bills and lost wages up to the time of the filing. It can also include an estimate for long-term expenses, like inability to work or chronic pain that impacts the quality of life. 

If you’ve been injured due to another party’s negligence, turn to Bernard M. Tully, Attorney at Law in Pittsburgh, PA, for assistance. This local personal injury attorney fights for the rights of accident victims across Allegheny County. Find out how they can assist your case online, and book a consultation by calling (412) 281-8700.