If you were seriously hurt at the hands of someone else, a personal injury attorney could help you achieve justice. After evaluating the situation, your legal team will determine the best way to pursue a payout from the liable party. In the meantime, here’s some more general information on the claims process so that you know what to expect along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Law 

How do I know if I have grounds for a claim?

The easiest way to determine whether you should take legal action is by consulting a personal injury attorney. Since most claims are founded on negligence, it's reasonable to assume that you’re entitled to seek a payout if the liable party breached the duty of care owed to you. In order to build a winning claim, you’ll have to prove how this breach was directly responsible for your injuries and that you incurred damages as a result. 

What kinds of damages can I include in the settlement negotiations?

In the state of Georgia, personal injury claimants may include both monetary and non-monetary losses in their damage calculations. Examples of monetary losses include medical bills, property repairs, and lost wages. Examples of non-monetary losses include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment in life. If the liable party acted with fraud, malice, oppression, or willful misconduct, a punitive award might also be warranted on top of any compensatory damages.  

How long do I have to take my case to court?

Georgia’s standard statute of limitations for personal injury suits is two years. Should you try to file a formal lawsuit after more than two years, the court will likely dismiss the case. It’s worth noting, however, that this deadline can be shortened considerably if the defendant is a government official. Depending on the circumstances, you may have as little as six months to sue a particular city or county. 

Do I have to hire an attorney to take legal action?

While it’s possible to file a personal injury suit without legal counsel, it's unadvisable, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local and state statutes. Most claimants must go up against insurance adjusters, who are essentially professional negotiators. What's more, their end goal is to protect their employer’s bottom line, and that means denying or devaluing every claim they review. A seasoned attorney will handle all correspondence with the claims adjuster and advocate for your rights at every stage of the proceedings. In other words, you can be sure you won't leave any money on the table.

If you want to seek compensation from a negligent, reckless, or malicious party in Fitzgerald, GA, contact the Law Offices Of Terrence J. Paulk, PC. This firm has been counseling clients throughout Ben Hill County for more than three decades. Their personal injury attorneys aren't afraid to go up against even the largest insurers, corporations, and government agencies. To schedule a case review with a compassionate personal injury attorney, reach out on their website or call (229) 423-8783.