It’s common sometimes that some accidents just happen suddenly and leave you in a long pain or injury. For example, a driver not paying attention might go through a red light and crash into your car. A mean dog could escape and bite someone who’s jogging. Or a worker who isn’t careful might leave a wet floor near a store, making someone slip and hurt their head. When these kinds of things happen, it’s important to know about personal injury law and bodily injury claims for your injuries in Alberta.
If you’re thinking about making a Personal Injury Claim Alberta, there are a few doubts or queries that can come to your mind. So, let’s explore which question you should ask for a personal injury claim to your lawyer and lighten your pain.
Common Queries of Personal Injury Claims Alberta
Here are 12 questions people often ask:
1. Do I even have a case?
If you got hurt because someone else was careless, you have a good reason to start a case to get money to cover your injuries.
Because it can be tricky to show it was someone else’s fault, it’s a good idea to talk to a personal injury lawyer. They can help you figure out what you can do and the best way to handle your situation.
2. What is the worth of my case?
Well, it is quite tough to estimate the value of your case from one perspective. The numerous factors influence the potential payout, which is why a lawyer needs time. Their thorough research on the particular case, strategies, checking past verdicts in similar cases and settlement details, decide the pay. There are some factors that help you to understand what you can receive:
- Past medical bills
- Rehabilitation costs
- Future medical costs
- Therapy
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages and/or future income
3. Will my case go to trial?
While most personal injury cases are resolved through out-of-court settlements, a trial might be necessary if:
- The defendant doesn’t offer any settlement.
- The defendant’s settlement offer is unreasonable.
- You prefer to go to trial.
- There’s a significant disagreement about who was at fault (liability) or the extent of the damages.
Although trials in personal injury cases are uncommon, understanding the potential for one is wise.
4. What will I be asked during a deposition?
A deposition is essentially a formal question-and-answer session where the defense attorney will ask you questions under oath. Your lawyer and a court reporter will also be present to record everything.
Expect questions about:
- Your background (work, education, family, etc.).
- Your health before the incident.
- The details of the accident itself.
- The medical treatment you received for your injuries.
- How the accident has affected your life.
5. How long will my lawsuit take?
The timeline for a personal injury lawsuit varies depending on the specifics of your case. Complex cases with significant factual or legal disputes, or those involving substantial compensation, often take longer.
The duration can also be affected if you are still recovering from your injuries, as your lawyer may want to wait until your recovery is complete to fully assess the long-term impact and value of your personal injury claim
While a quicker resolution is possible by agreeing to a lower settlement, be prepared for a potentially lengthy process to pursue a fair amount of compensation.
6. What is the deadline for filing my claim?
It’s crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations, which sets a strict deadline for filing your claim from the date of the incident. In New Hampshire and Massachusetts, this period is typically three years, so it’s advisable to consult with a lawyer promptly after an injury.
7. Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?
Remember that insurance companies are businesses focused on minimizing payouts to maximize their profits. Their initial settlement offer is likely to be significantly lower than what you deserve.
While accepting their offer will lead to a faster resolution, it could mean settling for much less than the true value of your claim. Working with an attorney can help you pursue the full compensation you are entitled to, even if it takes more time. The potential for a significantly higher payout often makes the longer process worthwhile.
8. Do I really need to hire a lawyer?
As mentioned, insurance companies prioritize their bottom line, not your best interests. Without legal representation, your chances of receiving a fair settlement are considerably lower.
The legal process can be complex and overwhelming for those unfamiliar with it. While minor claims might be manageable on your own, most personal injury cases benefit greatly from the expertise of an experienced attorney who can ensure you receive reasonable compensation.
Many personal injury law firms offer a free initial consultation, so there’s no risk in discussing your case with one.
9. What should I bring to my first meeting with a lawyer?
To help your lawyer understand your case, please bring any relevant documents, including:
- Medical records: diagnosis paperwork, discharge instructions, bills, receipts, and any treatment-related documentation.
- Police reports (if applicable).
- Witness information: names and contact details.
- Auto accident details (if applicable): your insurance information and any documents received from any involved insurance companies.
- Receipts for any injury-related expenses: such as wheelchair ramps or crutches.
10. What can I expect during my first meeting with a personal injury lawyer?
During your initial consultation, the lawyer will aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of your situation. You’ll be asked to provide detailed information about:
- How your injury occurred and the surrounding circumstances.
- The medical treatment you have received.
- The extent of your injuries and any anticipated future medical needs.
- Your medical and employment history.
- Any lost income resulting from your injuries.
After reviewing your case, the lawyer will explain the relevant personal injury laws and the necessary steps to pursue your claim. They will also discuss their fees and any associated expenses.
11. How much will hiring a lawyer cost?
The cost of a lawyer will depend on the specific law firm and the complexity and duration of your case. Most firms typically offer two payment structures:
- Hourly/Retainer: You pay your lawyer an hourly rate, often with an initial retainer fee placed in a trust account until work begins on your case.
- Contingency: You pay no upfront fees. Instead, the lawyer receives a pre-agreed percentage of any settlement or award obtained in your case.
12. Can I sue if I slip and fall on someone’s property?
Yes, you can sue if you slip and fall on someone’s property, but to be successful, you generally need to prove the property owner was negligent in maintaining a safe environment, their negligence directly caused your fall and injuries, and you suffered actual damages as a result.
13. How can you be eligible for a car accident injury claim?
You can be eligible for a car accident injury claim if the accident occurred due to another party’s negligence, resulting in your injuries and damages such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Even if you were partially at fault, you might still be eligible for compensation in many states, though the amount could be reduced based on your share of the fault.
Why should you choose NKS Injury Legal?
NKS Injury Legal stands out as a dedicated choice for your Personal Injury Claims Alberta for several compelling reasons.
Firstly, our specialization lies exclusively in personal injury law, ensuring that you benefit from focused expertise and a deep understanding of the nuances of Alberta’s legal landscape in this specific area. This singular focus means they are well-versed in dealing with insurance companies and maximizing your compensation.
Secondly, NKS Injury Legal operates on a contingency fee basis. This “no win, no fee” arrangement alleviates your financial burden, allowing you to pursue your claim without upfront costs. It also demonstrates our confidence in our ability to secure a favorable outcome for you, aligning our interests with yours.
Furthermore, NKS Injury Legal prides itself on providing personalized attention to each client. You can expect direct communication and a dedicated Personal Injury Lawyer in Calgary who understands the impact of your injuries on your life.
Our commitment is to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve, offering a supportive hand throughout what can be a stressful and complex process. If you seek a firm prioritizing focused expertise and client-centered service in Alberta, NKS Injury Legal is a strong contender.
Reserve a Free Consultation with NKS Injury Legal & Ask Your Queries
Now you may understand what to ask from your lawyer to get the proper bodily injury claim in Alberta.
Regardless of the payment option, you will generally be responsible for additional case-related expenses such as filing fees, service of process fees, deposition costs, and copying charges. It’s essential to have the agreed-upon payment plan and expense responsibilities documented in writing.
Given the unique nature of each case, it’s best to consult with a lawyer directly to get a clear understanding of your rights and potential compensation in your specific situation.
