When you have suffered injuries as the result of another’s reckless or negligent actions, it can impact every area of your life. You are likely facing a mountain of hospital and medical expenses, while being unable to work or even engage in activities you previously enjoyed.
At a time like this, it is important to have an experienced personal injury lawyer you can trust working to protect your rights, while assisting you in getting the compensation you need to recover. At the Johnston Law Firm, we offer a free initial consultation where we discuss some of the details surrounding your claim and how our office could potentially help. The following are among the most common questions asked during this consultation:
How Much Is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?
The amount of compensation you are entitled to depends on the type of accident and how it was caused, the injuries you suffered, and the total amount of costs you incurred or are likely to incur in the future. Under Section 31.700-740 of the Oregon Revised Statutes, you may be entitled to the following:
- Economic damages, which cover medical expenses and lost wages;
- Non-economic damages, which cover pain, suffering, and disfigurement;
- Punitive damages, an additional dollar amount meant to punish the at fault party for conduct that was particularly wanton or reckless.
What Are the First Steps In Filing A Claim?
In most cases, we begin by thoroughly investigating your accident and collecting evidence in your case. This includes any police or incident reports filed at the scene, witness statements, and medical records and statements from your physician. If you are dealing with an insurance company, we may be able to negotiate a settlement on your behalf. If there is no insurance or a settlement cannot be reached, we can proceed with filing a personal injury lawsuit in court.
How Long Will It Take To Get A Settlement?
The length of time it takes to resolve your claim depends on several factors, including whether the at-fault party admits responsibility, the amount of evidence available, and whether an insurance settlement can be reached or a personal injury lawsuit must be filed.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire A Personal Injury Attorney?
At the Johnston Law Firm, we generally handle personal injury claims on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing until your case is successfully resolved. The total amount is often a percentage of your personal injury award, and under Chapter 20 of the Oregon Code, attorney’s fee may be awarded by the court in addition to other types of compensation.
Contact Our Portland Personal Injury Attorneys Today for Assistance
The above provide basic answers to some of the most commonly asked questions we hear. To discuss your particular case in more detail and get answers to additional questions or concerns you have, contact our experienced Portland personal injury attorneys. At the Johnston Law Firm, we provide the professional legal representation you need to get the best possible results in your case, while also offering the kind of comprehensive client service you deserve.