Personal Injury FAQ

Quality Counsel from a West Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer

Accidents of any kind are shocking and unexpected, especially when they involve personal injury. After experiencing such an accident, you may be confused about what to do in order to hold the liable party responsible for their actions and for your injury-related expenses. Get answers today by contacting a West Virginia personal injury attorney from Klie Law Offices!

My firm is prepared to take your call so that you can schedule your free consultation. I have extensive experience in litigation and personal injury cases and I could provide the answers you need. Feel free to get started by reviewing some of the more common questions below, but don't hesitate to consult with an injury lawyer as soon as possible for the quality counsel and legal representation that you need in order to recover your damages.

Common Personal Injury Questions

What is a personal injury?
A personal injury is any physical, mental or emotional damage that results from an accident of any kind. As long as the accident was caused by someone else, the injured victim has the right to hold them responsible for compensation for their damages. For example, if you suffered a broken bone in a car accident caused by someone who was texting and driving, their insurance should be required to cover your medical treatment, as well as compensate you for your pain and suffering.

How do I know if I have a case?
Personal injury law establishes that an individual or other entity has a responsibility to take reasonable care to avoid causing harm and is responsible to repay any injury caused to another's person as a result of negligence or an intentionally harmful act. It encompasses bodily, emotional and mental injury. Proving negligence or that an individual or company has a responsibility to the injured person requires a great deal of insight, skill and dedication on the part of a West Virginia personal injury attorney.

How do I file a personal injury claim?
The first thing you should do is get immediate medical attention for any serious injuries. Keep all records for your treatment, such as doctors' bills and gas mileage to appointments, so that you can provide proof of your injury and your eligibility for compensation. With the assistance of a personal injury attorney, you could collect all the necessary documents and estimate the total of your claim. Next, you must draft a Complaint to be filed at the appropriate courthouse, which involves paying a filing fee. A Summons must then be sent to the defendant in your case (the party responsible for your injury) informing them that you filed a Complaint against them. Your case will then be brought before the court and litigation will commence.

When should I file claim for an injury accident?
Right away. Injury claims fall under West Virginia Code § 55-2-12, which means that an injured accident victim has only two years to file a claim from the date of their accident. If you wait too long, your claim could be denied and you will be unable to receive the compensation you need, so file immediately. Contact a West Virginia injury lawyer to assist you in filing your claim.

How much will I get for my personal injury claim?
It is nearly impossible to provide an exact number, but an experienced injury attorney could review your case and help you collect all necessary documents and information in order to come to a reasonable estimate. You could be compensated for your medical bills, property repairs, future medical treatments, present and future loss of income, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and other such damages. Some of these are difficult to determine since they have no set monetary value, but you could still get a general idea of how much your claim is worth by consulting with a knowledgeable injury lawyer.

Why hire a personal injury attorney?
Only a personal injury lawyer has the training, knowledge and experience to fight on your side and help you recover the full amount of your damages. Although it's possible for an accident victim to represent themselves in an injury claim, they have a far slimmer chance of winning maximum compensation than if they had experienced legal representation. At Klie Law Offices, I have litigated hundreds of cases and know how to handle your case before a judge and jury so that they grant the amount or recovery you deserve. Call my firm today to learn more.

What is a catastrophic injury?
A catastrophic injury or illness has a particularly severe effect on the individual and his or her life for a period of time or permanently. Such an illness or injury requires extensive medical treatment and may shorten the life expectancy of the injured person. Brain injury, amputations, severe burns, paralysis, internal organ damage and spinal cord injuries are some examples of catastrophic injuries.

Will my case have to go to trial?
Since only a small percentage of personal injury cases cannot be settled through negotiation, there is only a small chance that your particular case will have to be presented to a jury. When your future is at stake, preparation becomes of prime importance. The legal team at the firm works to build a strong case based on factual evidence for you before filing your claim. If negotiation doesn't result in a fair settlement agreement, your case is ready to go to the jury.

Can't I represent myself and get a larger settlement?
Unfortunately insurance companies often view injured claimants who are not represented by competent counsel as fair game. They know the laws and you don't. Too many times injured individuals accept a settlement amount that seems reasonable at the time only to find out later that the compensation they received was inadequate. Once you have signed an agreement you have waived (given up) all rights to further recovery of damages. To ensure your rights are protected talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer before you agree to any settlement or sign any papers.

Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney in West Virginia Today!

Over the years, I have litigated several hundred civil cases, including personal injury. By retaining my firm, you could get the answers you're looking for, as well as the aggressive litigator you need. I have practiced personal injury law for many years and my firm is more than capable of helping you build a strong case and help you recover the full amount of your damages. Don't let an accident injury turn your life upside down! Start fighting for your rightful compensation by calling Klie Law Offices today and scheduling your free case evaluation with a West Virginia personal injury attorney.