When you have been hurt through no fault of your own, often the only way for you to recover fair compensation for your injuries is to see an attorney. An attorney can help to negotiate a settlement with an insurance company or file a lawsuit on your behalf. At the Fonteneau Firm we can evaluate your case to determine the best way to proceed.

Do I have a Case?

One of the saddest realities of life is that not all injured people will be compensated for their injuries. One of the biggest factors contributing to whether any case is worth pursuing is the seriousness of the injuries involved. If the injuries are relatively small, often the cost of litigation will prove too high to justify filing a lawsuit. Another factor to consider when deciding to pursue a lawsuit is the ability of the potential defendant to pay for the damages caused. For example, if the person who caused the accident or injury has no assets or insurance they are “judgment proof.” That means that even if the plaintiff wins, the damages cannot be collected because the responsible party lacks the means to pay. Other factors like insurance policy limits can also limit an injured person’s ability to recover for the same reason. I was injured in an accident a long time ago.

Can I file a lawsuit now?

It depends, personal injury lawsuits in Alabama are subject to a two year statute of limitations in most cases. A statute of limitations is the amount of time an injured person has to file a lawsuit before it is lost forever. As a practical matter, evidence of your damages and witnesses can disappear over time. Therefore, it is important that you see an attorney as soon after your injury as possible to ensure that your rights and interests are protected.

I am still under a doctor’s care for my injuries, should I wait to see a lawyer?

No, as mentioned above, the statute of limitations in your case begins to run from the date of your injury. As a result, there are times when a lawsuit must be filed before you finish your treatment. A lawyer can calculate the statute of limitations in your case and advise you of your options.
We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we may be of service to you. For more information Call us at 205-533-9202, or contact us at info@kirafonteneau.com