FAQs

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Questions We Get About Personal Injury Law

*Please note that this FAQ provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified personal injury attorney to discuss the details of your specific situation.

At Miller Law Group, we specialize in protecting the rights and property of North Carolinians who have been wrongfully injured. We are your partners in your case, whether you’ve been affected by an auto accident, wrongful death, or medical malpractice due to a third party’s actions or negligence. We will fight for you every step of the way, and we don’t give up until justice has been properly served. We will help get you the compensation that you are owed, and we’ll never back down from a fight. That is our promise.

Personal injury law, also known as tort law, deals with legal conflicts that arise when an individual sustains harm or injury as a result of another person or entity’s actions, be they deliberate or a product of negligence. This area of law was built to provide  injured parties with the opportunity to pursue compensation for the damages and losses they have incurred.

Personal injury law covers a large scope of law and a range of case types, including but not limited to:

  • Car accidents
  • Slip and fall accidents
  • Medical malpractice
  • Workplace accidents
  • Product liability
  • Dog bites
  • Defamation (libel or slander)
  • Assault and battery
  • Nursing home abuse
  • Wrongful death

If you’ve been injured in an accident, follow these steps:

  • Seek medical attention: Before everything else, your health and well-being should be your top priority in these situations.
  • Document the incident: Gather evidence, take photographs, and collect witness statements, if possible.
  • Report the incident: Notify the relevant authorities, such as the police or your employer, depending on the situation.
  • Contact a personal injury attorney: Connecting with an experienced attorney specializing in personal injury cases to understand your legal rights and options.

For every type of lawsuit, there are statutes of limitation for how long you can wait before filing. These laws vary depending on the state, jurisdiction, and the type of case. Make sure to file within the specified time limit to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.

The compensation, also known as damages, you may be entitled to in a personal injury case can include:

  • Medical expenses: Costs associated with medical treatment, hospitalization, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for the income you couldn’t earn due to the injury, including future earning capacity if applicable.
  • Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Property damage: Reimbursement for any damage to your property, such as your vehicle in a car accident.
  • Punitive damages: In rare cases involving intentional misconduct or gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.

Perhaps, but it’s not an absolute yes. Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations between the affected parties. A settlement avoids the time, expense, and uncertainty of a trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

One of the most important decisions you will make during this process is picking the right attorney for your case. When making your selection, consider the following factors:

  • Experience: Look for an attorney with significant experience handling personal injury cases.
  • Expertise: Ensure the attorney specializes in personal injury law.
  • Reputation: Research the attorney’s reputation and track record of success.
  • Communication: Select an attorney who communicates effectively and informs you about your case.
  • Fee structure: Discuss the attorney’s fee arrangement upfront, such as contingency fees, where the attorney is paid a percentage of the settlement or verdict.

While it is possible to handle a personal injury case on your own, it is generally not recommended. Personal injury laws can be complex, and large companies often have experienced legal teams working to minimize or deny your claim. Working with a personal injury attorney can increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation. An attorney will navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with third parties, and advocate for your rights.

The timeline of a personal injury case varies based on several factors, including case complexity, the severity of injuries, negotiation willingness, and the court’s schedule. While some cases settle within a few months, others can take years to resolve. Rest assured, your attorney can offer a more accurate estimate, tailored to the specific circumstances of your case.

The concept of comparative or contributory negligence comes into play when the injured party shares some degree of fault for the accident. In such cases, the compensation may be reduced proportionally to the individual’s degree of responsibility. The specific rules regarding contributory negligence vary by jurisdiction, so it’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand how it may impact your case.

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At Miller Law Group, PLLC, we advocate for those who have suffered injustice. Justice should not be defined by anything other than the facts of your situation, and we will always fight for that to be the case. To learn more about our services or to schedule a free initial consultation, contact us today. We look forward to making you a part of our team.