Here’s What to Know if You’ve Been Involved in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

If you get involved in an accident caused by another person’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation. Dealing with injuries is stressful. Adding wages, medical bills, potential physical therapy, and adjusting to the new routine can seem overwhelming. If you’re thinking about filing a lawsuit due to injuries, here’s what you can expect from the law.

The Summons and Complaint

You must file various documents, present them to the court, and serve them to the defendant. It would be best if you prepared a complaint that acts as a legal document. This is helpful in identifying the factual and legal basis for the personal injury lawsuit. The caption identifies the plaintiff, the defendant, and the specific court you file your suit. The following section is comprised of numbered paragraphs detailing the court’s jurisdiction to identify negligence behind your allegations. It also details how the court will hear the case, and states facts related to the lawsuit. You must explain in your petition the amount of money you demand from the defendant as part of your compensation. The last section of your petition contains your signature or that of your attorney.

Service of Process

The process involves serving a defendant with the complaint and summons. Court officials, professional process servers, and law enforcement officers complete this process. The service can be done via U.S. mail in some jurisdictions. Still, the defendant’s proof of receipt is required. Service of process must be done within 30 days after filing your summons and complaint with the court. The court will likely grant you time extensions if you have trouble serving the defendant, provided you take reasonable steps to locate and serve the defendant. In 2021, the Bail Bond industry market size was $2.3 billion. If the person you serve does go to jail, it is possible that they could get out on bond.

The Timeline for a Personal Injury Case

If you get injured due to a fault caused by someone else, you must beware of what to expect in a personal injury lawsuit. It is essential to know the standard timeline for filing a personal injury claim and note that most personal injury cases get settled out of court without necessarily filing a lawsuit. In fact, 96% of personal injury lawsuits never go to trial.

Your Personal Injury Attorney

Discuss your injuries with a personal injury attorney to secure fair compensation. If you sustain significant damages, hire a reputable personal injury lawyer to secure compensation for medical bills and loss of wages. Before hiring a legal professional, educate yourself on what to ask to ensure proper representation. The litigation process starts when you and your attorney file a lawsuit in court. The pretrial procedures for each state are different, but a personal injury case may take up to two years to get to trial. The lawsuit must be filed within the statute of limitations set by every state.

Evidence of the Injury

Documenting the accident scene is crucial. Obtain CCTV footage, pictures of your injuries and the incident, and witness statements, if any. These act as proof that what you are saying is accurate. They vouch for the validity of your claim, as they are from an unbiased perspective. The defendant may lay doubts about your claim or injuries by saying you are not entitled to damages. Your treatment records and doctor’s statements will act as proof to cement your claim. Prepare receipts for your doctor’s prescription and hospital fees.

Trail Preparation

Before trial, the lawyers representing the plaintiff and the defendant may talk among themselves or involve a mediator to resolve the case. The issue is usually scheduled for trial if the mediation fails to work. The trial gets pushed depending on the judge’s schedule, and you should not have to worry about this if it happens. To improve the chances of securing compensation, you must prepare for the case adequately. At least 67% of all cases related to personal injuries are settled. Get in touch with a personal injury lawyer to push your claim forward and receive compensation.

If you sustain injuries due to another person’s negligence, it’s in your best interest to hire a personal injury lawyer. A seasoned attorney will secure the compensation you deserve for the pain and suffering caused. Don’t suffer in silence; take action today!