7 Things You Need To Know If You Are Hurt In An Accident
When you are hurt in an accident, you suffer financial and emotional damages in addition to the painful physical injuries you suffered in the accident. Under California’s personal injury laws, you have the right to receive compensation when you are hurt in an accident caused by another party. Below are seven important things you need to know if you are hurt in an accident in order to protect your legal rights in a personal injury claim.
ONE: Do Not Wait Too Long To Contact An Attorney
California has a statute of limitations that restricts the amount of time you have to file a claim when you are hurt in an accident. If you wait too long to contact an attorney, you may lose the right to receive compensation for your injuries.
TWO: You Must Act More Quickly If A Government Agency Is Involved
If a government entity is involved in your accident, you may not have as long as you think to file a claim. In some cases, you may need to provide notice to the government agency within 30 to 180 days from the date of the injury to protect your right to include the government agency in a personal injury lawsuit. Contacting a Fresno personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident is the best step you can take to protect your legal right to receive compensation for your injuries.
THREE: You Do Not Have To Sign A Release Or Provide A Statement Without Consulting With An Attorney
The insurance company for the other party may try to convince you that you need to sign a medical release or provide a statement for the company to begin processing your claim. This is not true. You have the right to consult with an attorney prior to providing a statement or signing a release. Because the insurance company may try to use this information to limit your recovery, you should always consult with an attorney first.
FOUR: You Have The Right To Receive Compensation For Your Current And Future Economic Losses
In addition to being reimbursed for the medical bills and lost wages you have incurred to date, you may have the right to receive compensation for future expenses if your injury prevents you from returning to work, limits the income you can earn in the future, or requires ongoing medical treatments. An experienced personal injury attorney understands how to use the evidence and expert witnesses to maximize your recovery for future losses.
FIVE: You Have The Right To Receive Compensation For Non-economic Losses
Under California’s personal injury laws, you have the right to be compensated for your physical pain, emotional suffering, and mental anguish. It is difficult to put a price on this type of suffering; however, our attorneys have extensive experience handling these types of claims.
SIX: You Have The Right To Choose Your Own Doctor
Do not let the insurance company for the other party convince you that you must use its doctor. You have the right to choose the doctors that provide medical treatment for your injuries.
SEVEN: Your Car Can Be Fixed Before You Complete Your Medical Treatment
If your injury is due to a car accident, you have the right to have your vehicle repaired even though you are still recovering from your injuries. However, you must be careful when signing release for any property damage. The insurance company may try to “sneak in” language that limits your recovery for other damages. Always let an attorney review any release the insurance company asks you to sign before you sign it. You do not want to give up your right to receive full compensation for your claim.
Have You Been Hurt In An Accident?
The personal injury attorneys of Torem & Associates represent injury victims in Fresno, CA and the surrounding Central California Valley that have been hurt in an accident caused by another party. Call Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000to schedule a free consultation today.
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