Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions. If you would like clarification on anything further feel free to contact us.
DO I HAVE GROUNDS TO FILE A PERSONAL INJURY LAWSUIT?
Many victims are unsure of whether or not they have grounds to file a personal injury case, as liability is not always so easily determined. In order to pursue a valid claim, however, one must be able to show that the negligent and/or reckless actions of another have caused them to suffer harm. This can include any instance in which a medical professional has failed to implement an appropriate level of care to their patient, or even the event that a distracted driver has failed to adhere to the rules of the road, and subsequently caused a collision. In order to accurately determine the validity of your case, however, you should review the circumstances of your injury with a legal professional.
HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO FILE A LAWSUIT?
Each state in the U.S. has implemented a statute of limitations in regard to filing a personal injury lawsuit. This means that an injured victim only has a certain amount of time to pursue legal action in the hopes of recovering compensation. In the state of Arkansas, the statute of limitations only allows an individual three years from the date that they were injured to initiate the legal process. This is applicable for all personal injury claims, including any instance of medical malpractice, product liability, and/or a wrongful death.
WHAT IF I AM PARTIALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR MY OWN INJURIES?
In Arkansas, the legal system follows the rule of “contributory negligence.” Contributory negligence can limit a victim’s recovery based on the victim’s level of fault. If it is determined that a victim’s fault is greater than the defendant, then the victim cannot recover from the defendant. For example, when a victim is determined to be at 40% at fault the victim can only recover 60% of the awarded damages.
HOW MUCH IS MY CASE WORTH?
The value of a personal injury case is dependent on a wide range of contributing factors, including the nature and severity of the injury that a victim has sustained, as well as the extent of the subsequent pain and suffering that they have been forced to endure. Other variables like incurred medical expenses and lost earnings will also be taken into account, but each case is often very different. Many times an insurance company will prompt a victim to settle for a lesser amount of compensation in order to avoid going to trial, but if one is willing to stick it out through the necessary legal process, they may be able to recover much more than initially offered.
WILL I NEED TO HIRE A LAWYER?
Although an individual is not required to retain the services of legal representation before filing a lawsuit, it is highly advised. Without a comprehensive understanding of personal injury law, including the statute of limitations that exist in the state, one may find themselves faced with a complex case that they cannot handle on their own. By contacting an attorney early on in the process, however, an accident victim may be able to better understand their chances of being able to obtain a successful resolution to their case, as well as take the proper steps to secure a favorable outcome. For more information about how a lawyer from GANN Injury Lawyers can help, schedule a consultation with our firm today.
