When you talk with an attorney at a personal injury law firm, the conversation is going to cover a lot of ground. There are, however, a few key issues that every client should understand, so take a look at 5 that are likely to factor into your case.

The Statute of Limitations

Nothing worries a personal injury lawyer more about a case than the possibility that the statute of limitations has already expired. For most injury claims in most U.S. states, the statute of limitations is between two and three years from the time of the incident. This means you have that much time to send formal notice to the at-fault party that you intend to seek compensation. Once the statute of limitations has passed, it's close to impossible to pursue a claim, so you want to get all of your paperwork together before that time.

Compensation

If you've been injured, you may need money to pay for things like medical bills, loss of wages and future earnings, physical therapy, and ongoing care. You might also be entitled to compensation to cover pain, suffering, and emotional trauma. Compensation can be attained through a settlement if an insurance company considers the claim valid. If that approach fails, you may still be able to sue and obtain compensation as part of a legal judgment against the defendant.

Insurance Adjustment

Most claims are going to end up being reviewed by a professional who is hired by the insurance company for the alleged at-fault party. This professional is known as an insurance adjuster. An adjuster first needs to determine whether a claim is valid. Presuming they determine the claim is valid, they'll make a settlement offer in the hope of getting the case off the insurance company's books.

Negotiation

It's not uncommon for a personal injury lawyer to advise their client to pass on the first offer. Many cases lead to negotiations, and these sometimes go back and forth for months or even years. The time spent in a negotiation does not count against the statute of limitations because the statute has been completely satisfied once you send a formal notice of intent to demand compensation.

Payment Options

At-fault parties and their insurers have a couple of options for paying settlements. If they wish to spread the costs out, they may offer an annuity. If they wish to take the hit up front, they might offer a lump-sum settlement. Parties that can't afford to pay may end up facing garnishments and liens against their property.

Contact a personal injury lawyer like James Lee Katz to learn more.