Accident Injury FAQ
Click here to read more about Motorcycle Accidents
Click here to read more about Truck or Tractor Trailer (“Semi”) Accidents
The attorneys at Marlowe Law Offices, PLLC have a great deal of experience with accident injury cases and offer a free consultation to discuss your case. The information below answers some frequently asked questions about accident injury cases, but keep in mind that every case is different. Call us at 615-244-9190 or Toll-Free at 1-866-843-5298 to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions about Accident Injury Cases:
Question: Who can I sue to recover my damages if I suffer an injury in an accident?
Answer: If you suffer an injury in an accident, in some cases, you may be able to sue parties other than the person who was at-fault. For example, a motor vehicle’s owner may also be liable for your damages. Also, if an at-fault motor vehicle driver was impaired due to consuming too much alcohol, you may be able to sue the business that served alcohol to the driver.
There are cases in which you may be able to bring a civil lawsuit against a motor vehicle manufacturer or construction company, such as if a defect in the vehicle is found, or if the roadway design or maintenance is found to have caused the accident.
If a motor vehicle accident involves a company car or truck, the driver’s violation of rules and regulations may be the basis for a lawsuit against the driver and/or his or her employer.
Q: How much is my case worth?
A: The amount of economic damages will depend on a variety of factors and must be determined by analyzing information regarding the extent of the injury, medical bills incurred, loss of income, and duration or future duration of the injury.
Q: Will I have to go to court?
A: Not in all cases. A majority of accident injury cases are settled without even filing a lawsuit or without a trial. Settling your claim will avoid the cost and delay of a trial that could result in a greater total recovery. If your case cannot be settled on satisfactorily, it might be necessary to go to trial.
Q:How long will it take me to receive my settlement?
A: The length of time needed to finalize your accident injury case will depend upon a several factors such as potential future medical expenses related to the accident. The amount of time needed to heal properly may determine the length of time necessary to finalize your claim. The amount of time needed to receive your money also depends on whether your case is settled or goes to trial.
Q: What should I do if I can’t afford an attorney?
A: The attorneys at Marlowe Law Offices, PLLC will review your case. If we agree to pursue your accident injury claim we may do so on a contingent fee basis. This means our firm’s fee will be subtracted from any amount that our attorneys collect for you. If we accept your case on a contingency fee arrangement and no amount is recovered, then our firm receives no fee. In some cases, the client may be responsible for actual expenses, such as court filing fees or witness fees, whether he or she wins or loses the case.
Q: Should I see a doctor?
A: If you are involved in an accident, you should seek always seek medical attention. In some cases, an accident injury is not immediately apparent due to shock. It is best that you go to your family doctor, a hospital emergency room, or another medical professional to obtain medical evaluation.
Q: How soon must I bring my claim?
A: Every state sets a time limitation for bringing a personal injury claim. That time period may vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, such as age, the type of personal injury claim, the particular facts giving rise to the injury, and when the injury is discovered. You must be absolutely certain that you know the time limitation period that applies to you, or you risk jeopardizing your legal rights. We can advise you on that.
Q: Should I accept a check from the person at fault or the insurance company?
A: You should not accept a check or sign a release from the person or company at fault or the insurance company until after you have conferred with an attorney. By accepting a check, it may be construed as a settlement that prohibits you from obtaining any additional amounts from the party at fault driver or his or her insurance company. You should to wait to accept a check until after you have completed your medical treatment and have been released by a doctor. That way you know you have received an amount that adequately covers your medical bills and other damages.
Keep in mind that an insurance adjuster may push you to settle the claim for the lowest possible amount and/or may discourage you from contacting an attorney. Do not delay in contacting an attorney. Consult an attorney immediately before accepting any payment, signing any release, or otherwise settling your claim to insure that you are receiving fair compensation and not jeopardizing your right to a full and fair recovery. Call us at 615-244-9190 or Toll-Free at 1-866-843-5298 to discuss your Nashville accident injury case.
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.