Grounds for Filing an Auto Accident Lawsuit in Pawtucket
Each year, approximately two million people are injured and at least 20,000 people die in the more than five million motor vehicle accidents that occur in the U.S., according to Bureau of Transportation statistics.
Under Rhode Island and federal law, if you are the victim of an auto accident injury in Pawtucket caused by the recklessness or carelessness of another person, you can file a civil action suit. If negligence is proven, the guilty party must pay you monetary damages that may include consideration for present and future loss of earnings, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Keep in mind, it is not always required to have a physical injury to bring a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury lawsuit can be pursued based on the diminishment of your reputation or an intentional infliction of emotional distress.
When to retain a Pawtucket automobile accident attorney
If you have been in an automobile accident, Pawtucket auto accident injury attorney Raymond A. Pacia encourage you to retain a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Following are the steps involved with filing a personal injury lawsuit:
- Initial Consultation: At your initial consultation, your attorney will evaluate your case and advise you on whether or not you have a legal claim.
- Negotiations: Your lawyer will first try to negotiate a settlement directly with the insurance company. If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawsuit goes to court. Keep in mind, a Rhode Island personal injury civil lawsuit can take a few years to resolve, with the average amount of time being about two years.
- Court Proceedings: If your lawsuit goes to court, your Pawtucket automobile accident attorney represents you and presents evidence on your behalf to prove your claim to a jury. After arguing your case, the jury deliberates and delivers a verdict regarding the compensation you deserve.
- Settlement: If the verdict is in your favor, your attorney helps you decide the best way to receive compensation.
Statute of limitations in filing a claim for car accident injury in Pawtucket
It is important to keep in mind that every state has a statute of limitations dictating the time limit to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Rhode Island, you have three years from the date of the accident to file an auto accident lawsuit in Pawtucket for negligence. If you do not file a lawsuit within that time frame, you will be forever barred from filing a claim as a result of the accident.
Free initial consultation and interview
The Pawtucket car accident injury law firm of Raymond A. Pacia has successfully represented many victims in bringing an auto accident lawsuit in Pawtucket against negligent drivers and their insurance companies.
If you have a Pawtucket auto accident injury claim, call us at 401.727.2242 or toll free at 800.933.0390.
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