Atlanta Accident Lawsuits
Common Accident Lawsuit Misconceptions
If you are involved in an accident lawsuit for the first time, you will find that many people are quick to offer advice and share details about their own past experiences. Unfortunately, that information is often inaccurate, incomplete, or simply not objective. Below, the accident injury lawyers of Atlanta's Palazzola Law Firm, P.C. challenge some of the more common misconceptions about Atlanta accident injury lawsuits.
• You must file suit within twelve months.
Not necessarily true. The statute of limitations varies by state, so the time you have to file a lawsuit is determined by the state in which the accident occurred. In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury is two years.
• I can determine the damage amount I am entitled to receive.
Not true. A number of factors affect the amount you can collect in a personal injury lawsuit, including legal precedents, the seriousness of your injury, and the possibility of long-term damage or inability to work.
• I will get to tell my story in court.
Not necessarily. It is often in your best interests for your attorney to settle the case before it goes to court.
• I have to have money to pay the lawyer upfront.
Not true. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning that they collect a percentage of any award or settlement. Otherwise, they do not get paid.
• I will not be able to receive medical care for my injuries until the case is settled.
Not true. In fact, it is important for your case that you do get immediate and recommended follow-up medical treatment.
• If a family member dies as a result of an accident, I will have to pay funeral expenses.
Not necessarily true. If the person died as a result of negligence on the part of another person or entity, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed to compensate you for the deceased's medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of future income, and related items.
