The Denver personal injury attorneys at the Frickey Law Firm represent injury victims from all over Colorado in hundreds of cases each year. If you or a loved one was hurt due to another’s negligence, you may be unsure about what to do next.
Our accident lawyers offer complimentary consultations to help you understand your legal options and determine whether you have a claim to pursue compensation. Call us today at 303-237-7373, or continue reading for the answers to 10 of the most commonly asked questions about personal injury cases.
1. I was hurt in an accident that wasn’t my fault. Will I have to go to court to recover financial compensation for my medical costs and other damages?
Possibly. Personal injury claims can often be settled out of court with the assistance of an experienced attorney. In some cases, however, a trial is the only way to get the compensation you deserve. Your lawyer will help you set realistic expectations based on the unique circumstances of your case.
2. When should I contact a personal injury lawyer about my case?
You should speak to an attorney as soon as possible after sustaining the injury and before you provide a statement to your insurance company or the insurance provider of another involved party. Contacting a lawyer in the immediate aftermath of your injury can help preserve valuable evidence, improve your chance for a timely and successful resolution, and ease some of the burdens you and your family feel in this difficult time.
3. How much time do I have to file a lawsuit?
The deadline to file a personal injury claim is known as a statute of limitations. In Colorado, most personal injury cases have a statute of limitations of two years from the date you are injured; if the incident that caused the injury was a traffic accident, the statute of limitations is three years. Although there are exceptions to the deadline, it is in your best interests to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
4. What is my case worth?
The value of personal injury cases varies widely based on factors that include: existing medical bills, future medical and rehabilitation costs, time away from work, the extent of pain and suffering, and whether a temporary or long-term disability is involved. Your attorney can provide an estimate of your potential compensation after developing an understanding of your injuries and expenses.
5. How much do personal injury attorney services cost?
The Denver personal injury lawyers at the Frickey Law Firm work on a contingent-fee basis, which means we only charge for our services if we recover a settlement or verdict on your behalf. If successful, we charge a percentage of your settlement, the amount of which will be discussed during your initial consultation.
6. How long does it take to settle a personal injury case?
Many cases settle in a matter of a few months, while others may take more than a year. The length of your case depends on the complexities of your claim, the number of parties involved, and whether the at-fault party or parties decide to arrive at a fair settlement or challenge the claim and go to court.
7. Can I help the process go faster?
You can help at the outset of your case by gathering as much information about your claim as possible, including photographs, video, witness contact information, police reports and medical documentation. After that, your attorney will handle all the legal details and allow you to focus on healing and moving forward with your life. Your lawyer will stay in close contact with you throughout the process.
8. Should I sign medical and property damage releases from the insurance company?
No, not without first consulting a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer. Don’t give any statements to insurance providers or sign any insurance company forms without your attorney present; doing otherwise could limit your ability to pursue just compensation. Insurance companies often try to limit what they pay in order to maintain their bottom lines.
9. The insurance adjuster offered me a settlement. Should I accept it?
Don’t accept any settlement without first speaking to your attorney. Insurance companies’ early settlement offers are often insufficient for the needs of accident victims. Having a good attorney on your side can ensure that insurance companies don’t take advantage of your situation.
10. What should I bring to my consultation with a personal injury attorney?
Bring as much information related to the injury and the incident that caused it. This includes but is not limited to: police reports, medical documents, insurance information for yourself and other involved parties, bills for related expenses, photos of your injury and/or the incident scene, contact information for witnesses, etc.
If you were hurt or a family member was killed due to another’s negligence anywhere in Colorado, the personal injury attorneys at the Frickey Law Firm are here to help you pursue the financial security you need. Please contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.