Common Questions in Fresno, California Personal Injury Cases
Q: What is a personal injury case?
A: There are many instances in which a case falls under the category of personal injury. Automobile accidents, premises liability, and injuries sustained from slips and falls are among the most common examples. In any case where someone is injured due to the negligence of another, a personal injury claim may be warranted.
Q: Just how is negligence defined?
A: Under the law, everyone is required to act with reasonable care toward another. When someone fails to do this, it is called negligence. In any personal injury case, negligence must be proven.
Q: How do I know if I have a personal injury case?
A: The only way to know for sure if your case is solid is to contact a fresno personal injury lawyer. Our law firm provides free evaluation of your claim to help you determine the best way to proceed.
Q: What do I need to prove negligence?
A: You and your lawyer will typically need to prove three things in order to recover awards and damages in any personal injury case. You will have to show evidence of damages, evidence of someone else's negligence, and proof that their negligence caused your injuries and damages.
Q: How much can I expect to be rewarded or compensated?
A: While there is no magic number or formula that is used to determine the worth of your case, there are several factors the law will consider. These might include the amount of lost wages, costs for medical and personal care, pain and suffering, as well as present and future impairment. We, can put our expertise to work for you and examine the different aspects of your case to determine just how strong your case might be.
Q: What should I do if I am hurt as a result of an accident.
A: The very first thing you need to do is get examined by a physician. Your injuries may not be outwardly obvious. And any that you do have may not seem serious to you -- but you are not the expert. In addition to seeking medical care, you should also file a police report as soon as poosible -- at the scene is best. If you can, write down every detail of what happened as soon as possible, taking care to get the names, addresses and numbers of any witnesses. Take pictures of the accident scene and of your injuries. Finally, talk to a lawyer specializing in personal injury to have the merits of your case evaluated. Our office provides free case evaluations, and can advise you on the best route to pursue with your claim.
Q: What should I avoid doing in the event that I am injured due to an accident?
A: You should seek legal advice prior to making any statements to ANYONE or before signing any documents. Furthermore, you should not talk to any insurance company representatives, or say anything to play down the seriousness of your injuries. All told, it is just better all around to not do anything without talking to a personal injury lawyer first. We can help... we have your best interests at heart, unlike the insurance companies, who just want to make your case go away as quickly and cheaply as possible.
Q: What are punitive and compensatory damages?
A: Punitive damages are designed to punish the person responsible for causing the accident in which you were hurt. They are meant to serve as an example in order to discourage others from being negligent in the same manner as the defendant. Compensatory damages are designed to reimburse you for actual losses sustained as a result of your accident. This includes payment for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care, as well as consideration for pain and suffering.
Q: So, at what point should I call a Personal Injury Lawyer?
A: Don't delay, call our experienced Fresno Personal Injury Attorneys as soon as possbile after your personal injury accident. Our personal injury lawyers are standing by now to help you move forward with you claim or lawsuit. You only have so much time to go after the person or persons who caused you injuries. Contact us now, before it is too late.
Contact our Fresno Personal Injury Attorneys and Lawyers for a Free Confidential Consultation at 800-785-9924.