If you’ve been harmed due to another person or entity’s negligence in Wheeling, WV, you probably need a personal injury lawyer. Each case is unique, so it’s crucial that you speak with an attorney quickly to determine the appropriate course of action. Personal injury law can be complicated, so connecting with a lawyer who has your best interests at heart is vital.

Legal expenses can be very daunting to the average West Virginian. But at Laird Law, we work on contingency. What does that mean? It means that you don’t pay us unless we win you a financial award, either through a settlement or a trial verdict. When we secure financial compensation for you, we receive a percentage of the amount.

There isn’t a set amount of compensation that applies to every personal injury case. Rather, your Laird Law attorney will thoroughly review your unique claim and assess the financial award you may be eligible to receive under the law. Although we cannot state specific dollar amounts, compensation often covers medical expenses, ongoing treatment, loss of income, emotional pain and suffering, and more.

Protecting the value of your claim after an accident is crucial to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. Here are the critical steps to take:

1. Seek medical attention immediately,  even if injuries seem minor, getting prompt medical care documents your injuries and creates an official record, which is essential for your claim. Insurance companies may argue that delayed treatment indicates your injuries weren’t serious or were caused by something else.

2. Preserve evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles or property, and any visible injuries. Keep records of medical bills, repair estimates, prescriptions, and correspondence with insurers. While things are fresh in your mind, make detailed notes about what happened, including dates, times, and witnesses.

3. Avoid discussing the case with insurers without guidance. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to accept a quick settlement. Avoid giving recorded statements or signing anything until you understand your rights. Insurance companies may use anything you say to reduce the value of your claim.

4. Hire an experienced attorney. A lawyer who handles personal injury or accident claims can negotiate with insurers, protect your legal rights, and ensure you don’t settle for less than your claim is worth. Having an attorney often significantly raises the amount of a settlement.

The West Virginia statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two (2) years from the date of the injury. This means that you typically have two years from the day the accident or incident occurred to file a lawsuit. However, there are some important exceptions to note:

• Minors: If the injured person is under 18, the statute of limitations may be extended until their 18th birthday.

• Claims against the government: If your claim is against a government entity, special notice requirements and shorter deadlines may apply.

• Discovery rule: In some cases, when the injury was not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may start from the date the injury was discovered (or reasonably should have been discovered).

No matter the situation, it’s important to act quickly to document evidence and seek legal counsel. Missing the deadline usually means you lose the right to sue. Contact Laird Law today to begin your claim: (304) 551-2800.

If your Laird Law personal injury attorney cannot secure an appropriate settlement to compensate you fairly, Laird Law will represent you at trial. We create a strategic trial plan that looks at your case from every angle, including lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and even childcare and in-home assistance needs. We take the time to evaluate your case exhaustively; this allows us to ask for full, fair compensation on your behalf.

West Virginia uses a “modified comparative negligence” system for personal injury cases, including car accidents and other incidents that cause medical bills. Under this law, you can pursue money for your medical bills if you were partly at fault, with a few caveats. 

First, your share of fault can’t exceed a certain threshold. That is, you cannot be more at fault than the other party or parties combined. Second, you must file the right kind of claim under the modified comparative negligence system. 

Given the trickier nature of these claims, it’s crucial to get swift legal counsel from a West Virginia personal injury lawyer.

Are you ready to seek legal help from a Wheeling, WV, personal injury attorney? Contact Laird Law at (304) 551-2800 to get started.