Those who have suffered injuries at work, at home, during acts of leisure, or out in public, all have rights that deserve to be defended. If you have been injured and are looking to receive compensation for pain and suffering caused, there are some things you should know first.

Before you make the decision to file a lawsuit, read the following list of things you should know about personal injury cases.

Do You Have a Case?

In the result of injury or death caused by another person’s negligent actions, the survivor or their loved ones have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and any damages caused. Personal injury lawsuits protect your rights and help you survive the scars that the incident left you with. To better determine if you have a potentially winning case, consult with a personal injury lawyer.

What Types of Damages Can Be Collected?

Economic damages can be compensated in a lawsuit, such as lost wages, medical bills, insurance expenses, property damage and repairs. Non-economic damages, such as emotional pain or physical suffering, can also be covered in a settlement.

Can Personal Injury Lawyers Secure Better Settlements for the Injured?

On average, those who hire an attorney to represent their personal injury claims tend to receive settlements up to three times better than those who proceed without legal representation.

Is There a Deadline to File a Lawsuit?

Yes. In the state of Arizona, you have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit for an accident or injury. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury case against a public entity or office is one year.

What if You Were Partially at Fault?

In Arizona, the amount of damages you can recover is reduced by the percentage of how much you are determined to be at fault for the accident.

Do You Have to Pay Your Medical Bills While the Case Is Ongoing?

Yes. Even if a settlement may eventually pay for those bills, while the case is ongoing the expenses will likely fall to you.

What is the Importance of Establishing Negligence?

Essential. Gathering the evidence to prove negligence can be the deciding factor in whether the negligent party will pay for damages caused.

How Long Do Personal Injury Cases Take?

They can take months to years from beginning to end, depending on their complexity. Because of this, some may seek to reach a settlement before entering into litigation.

How Much is Your Personal Injury Case Worth?

This depends! In general, the more severe the injury or damage, the better the chances your case could receive a higher settlement.

When Should You Find Legal Representation?

The first thing you should do is seek medical attention and, if possible, acquire evidence of the accident, including speaking to witnesses. Then, contact the insurance company. And now, finally, contact a personal injury attorney.