The beginning of the year is a great time to handle things you’ve been putting off. If you were hurt in a motor vehicle accident or injured in a public place within the last three years and haven’t commenced a claim, now is the time to act. There’s a deadline, called the statute of limitations, that limits how long you have to file a claim. If you wait too long, you could lose your chance to recover the compensation you deserve. Make it your New Year’s Resolution to consult with a personal injury lawyer before time runs out.
What is Statute of Limitations ?
The statute of Limitations is legislation that restricts the time within which legal proceedings may be brought after a personal injury occurs.
Generally, negligence claims have a three-year statute of limitations in New South Wales.
What is a Personal Injury?
A “personal injury” refers to any harm or damage that a person as a result of the negligence of another party. The law allows individuals who have suffered personal injuries to seek compensation from the party responsible for their harm through an injury claim. This compensation can cover medical expenses, economic loss, pain and suffering, and domestic assistance.
Why you should consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer as soon as possible
If you’ve been injured in an accident, it is in your interest to consult a personal injury lawyer in your area as soon as possible to protect your rights and strengthen your case.
In addition, when you hire a lawyer early on you benefit from:
1. Legal guidance. An experienced lawyer can provide legal advice for your situation to ensure that you understand your options, avoid making critical mistakes, and explain the next steps you can take and you secure fair compensation.
2. Effective claims process. Starting your injury claim early allows your lawyer to navigate the process more efficiently, giving you the best chance of securing the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages well before the statute of limitations expires.
3. Understanding the value of your claim. Without a legal background, it can be very hard to know the true value of your claim. A personal injury lawyer will assess your accident and injuries and advise you of the true value so you are not tempted to settle for less.
4. Handling all insurance company communication. An insurance company typically reach out early after an accident to try and convince the injured party to accept a small settlement. When you hire a lawyer early, they will handle all communication with the insurer to ensure you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement offer.
5. Preserving critical evidence. The sooner you start working on your claim, the easier it is to gather and preserve critical evidence, such as photos, witness statements, or accident reports, that are required for a successful claim.
6. Medical documentation. A lawyer can arrange for the important medical documentation to be obtained in your case. This documentation is vital for proving the extent of your damages.
Complete our free online claim check today or call Taylor & Scott Lawyers on 02 9265 2500 and we will assist with your claim.
