How do I know if I need a personal injury lawyer?
You should consider hiring a personal injury lawyer if you've suffered serious injuries, face significant medical bills, lost wages, or are dealing with insurance company resistance. Specifically, seek legal representation when:
- Your injuries require ongoing medical treatment or result in permanent disability
- The accident involves multiple parties or disputed liability
- Insurance companies are denying your claim or offering inadequate settlement
- You've missed significant work time due to your injuries
What types of cases do personal injury lawyers handle?
Personal injury lawyers specialize in various types of cases involving injuries caused by negligence or wrongful conduct. Common practice areas include:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
- Slip and fall incidents and premises liability
- Medical malpractice and healthcare negligence
- Workplace accidents and workers' compensation
- Product liability cases involving defective products
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:
- No upfront costs or hourly fees
- The lawyer only gets paid if you win your case
- Typical contingency fees range from 33% to 40% of the settlement
- Initial consultations are usually free
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of injury. However, there are exceptions:
- Discovery rule: Clock starts when you discover the injury
- Medical malpractice: Three years from injury or one year from discovery
- Government claims: Six months notice requirement
- Minors: Time may be extended until they reach 18
What should I do immediately after a personal injury accident?
Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can strengthen your case:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Report the incident to police or property owners
- Keep detailed records of medical treatment and expenses
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies
- Contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible
What compensation can I recover in a personal injury case?
Personal injury settlements in Los Angeles typically include both economic and non-economic damages:
- Economic damages: Medical bills, lost wages, future medical costs, property damage
- Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment
- Punitive damages: May apply in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm
The amount depends on injury severity, impact on your life, and available insurance coverage.
How do I choose the right personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles?
When selecting a personal injury attorney, consider these key factors:
- Experience with cases similar to yours
- Track record of successful settlements and verdicts
- Resources to handle complex litigation
- Clear communication and responsiveness
- Contingency fee structure with no upfront costs
- Local knowledge of Los Angeles courts and judges
