Answers To Your Personal Injury Questions

If I am hurt or injured, what steps should I take?

First and foremost, take care of yourself. If medical treatment is needed, seek appropriate medical attention as soon as possible. You will want to make certain that the accident is reported to the proper authorities and to your insurance carrier, when applicable. It will be helpful if you, a family member or friend can take pictures of the accident scene.

Exchange contact information with all individuals involved in the accident and any witnesses to the accident. Avoid making a statement verbally or in writing to any insurance company (yours or any other parties’) before seeking counsel. Any information you provide could be used to reduce the value of your claim. Schedule a consultation with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to learn about your rights.

How much does a consultation cost?

We offer free consultations on all personal injury cases. When needed, initial consultations at homes, nursing centers, hospital facilities and rehab centers are available.

If I have a case, how much is it worth?

Each case is unique. Until the facts of your case have been fully investigated and evaluated by a qualified professional, and factors such as past and future medical bills, loss of earnings, and impairment of an individual’s physical and mental health are known, the value of a case is unknown.

How do I know if I have a personal injury case?

A personal injury case is based upon the negligence of another person or entity which causes your injury. In other words, the other person had some type of duty to act or not act in a particular way, and by failing to act or carelessly performing that act, you suffer injury.

Much of the time, the negligence is obvious. However, there are circumstances where the negligence is more difficult to identify, such as those involving nursing homes and assisted living facilities, medical negligence or product malfunction. We know the experts who can determine if negligence occurred. Should you have any concerns, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

What if the insurance company asks me to sign forms and releases?

To avoid waiving of any of your legal rights, do not sign any forms provided to you by anyone in connection with your injury, including those of your own insurance company, before having them reviewed by an attorney. The only exception would be relating to forms provided by physicians and hospitals, to receive appropriate medical care.

If I am entitled to money for my injury and damages, how long will it take to receive?

Each case is different. We strive to evaluate your case as quickly as the facts and evidence become available. We will move your case forward either to a settlement that you approve, or to trial as fast as the facts permit.

If I have suffered a personal injury, is there a time limit to file suit?

In general, the statute of limitations for filing suit in a personal injury or negligence claim is two years from the date of accident or negligent act.

How much is this going to cost me?

We advance all of the reasonable and necessary costs of litigation on behalf of our clients. The client then reimburses those costs only when he or she receives a jury award or settlement. Our fees are contingent on recovering money for you as the client. If no money is recovered, there is no fee.

How will I pay for things such as medical bills, car repair and other damages, including being reimbursed for lost wages?

We are happy upon consultation to give you the guidance that you need in these areas, based upon your individual facts and circumstances. Being injured causes physical, mental and emotional stress. We welcome the opportunity to help relieve you of the burdens of navigating the process by yourself and the various legal concepts that you will face, regarding your case. Please contact us for your free consultation.

Have More Questions? We Have Answers.

If you’re not finding all the answers you need about your injury claim, call us at Douglas, Joseph & Olson. Contact us at 724-704-0554 or email us using our online contact form to speak to one of our experienced attorneys. We have two convenient locations in Hermitage and Jamestown, Pennsylvania.