Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Providence

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Providence, Rhode Island?

  401-272-3121 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police department in Providence, Rhode Island.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Providence, Rhode Island?

  You can request a copy of a police report in Providence, Rhode Island through the Records Office. You can also contact (401) 243-6416. If you want to obtain a copy of a police report online, you can purchase it at the LexisNexis website.

• How long can do you have to file a personal injury claim in Providence, Rhode Island?

  According to the Rhode Island statute of limitations, personal injury victims must bring a personal injury lawsuit within three years of the date the injury occurred. Nevertheless, Providence, Rhode Island has a discovery rule that may influence the time limit. The statute of limitations for a victim who was unaware of the damage begins on the day the victim discovered the injury. The time limit for filing a lawsuit varies based on the kind of accident and who the defendant may be.

• What are the common types of personal injury damages in Providence, Rhode Island?

  Personal injury damages are often classified as compensatory or punitive. Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, physical deformity, and pain and suffering are examples of compensatory damages. Punitive damages are used to penalize the party that caused the victim harm. Compensatory damages are more commonly awarded than punitive damages. If you are dealing with a personal injury case, it is recommended that you consult a Providence personal injury attorney to learn more about the specific types of compensation you may be entitled to.

• Who determines the at-fault party in a personal injury case in Providence, Rhode Island?

  If your case goes to trial, the jury or judge will determine fault and make a judgment on how much the at-fault party owes in damages. However, since the majority of personal injury cases are resolved out of court, you can hire a Providence personal injury attorney to assist you in determining blame. Attorneys could utilize police reports and witness testimonies to figure out how to argue the case with the insurance company or the negligent party.

• What evidence do you need to gather before making a personal injury claim in Providence, Rhode Island?

  You must gather evidence to prove the severity of your economic and non-economic losses. To strengthen a personal injury claim, you must have medical records, photographs of the incident and its effects, and witness statements. This documentation can also better assist a Providence personal injury attorney when they take on your case.

• What are the factors you should consider when choosing a Providence personal injury lawyer?

  Years or decades of experience, education, awards and accolades, board certification, and client reviews are important aspects to consider when hiring a personal injury attorney in Providence, Rhode Island. Communication methods must also be evaluated since it is essential to work with someone who is trustworthy and makes you feel comfortable. It is typically recommended to seek Providence personal injury attorneys who have handled situations similar to yours.

• How to choose a personal injury attorney?

  It's crucial to find a personal injury attorney who is experienced, but it's also important to feel comfortable. Take advantage of free consultations and ask questions about how long each candidate has been practicing, how their fee structure works, and who will be handling the majority of the casework (some big firms may hand off routine tasks to paralegals). Above all, find someone who listens well and believes they can achieve an optimal outcome. Still uncertain? Ask friends for referrals and check out online reviews.

• What does a personal injury lawyer do?

  Personal injury attorneys help those who have suffered due to the negligence of others get the compensation they deserve. That may include negotiating settlements with other people, insurance companies, or even government agencies or arguing the case in court. Some attorneys specialize in a certain type of injury, such as auto accidents or birth injuries, while others advocate for almost any injured party.

• What does personal injury law cover?

  In the legal world, "personal injury" is any kind of injury, physical or psychological, that results from the negligence of a person, business, or other entity. While visible or acute injuries such as a broken leg or concussion are among the most obvious types of personal injuries, this category also covers less tangible injuries such as emotional distress and issues such as asbestos exposure that may contribute to long-term problems.

• What are the most common types of personal injury claims?

  Personal injury claims encompass a wide variety of situations ranging from accidents on privately owned property to injuries in the line of duty to whiplash sustained during a commute. These claims may include car accidents, dog bites, slip and falls, medical malpractice, defamation, product defect accidents, premises liability, product liability, workplace accidents, food poisoning at a restaurant, and boating or aviation accidents.

• How do personal injury lawyers get paid?

  Many personal injury lawyers advertise that they don't get paid unless their client does. This is called "working on contingency," meaning the attorney is compensated only if they win their case. These payments are typically percentage based, giving attorneys a predetermined portion of the court-ordered award. Other lawyers may command an hourly rate or combine an hourly rate with a smaller contingency fee.

• How much do personal injury lawyers charge?

  Personal injury lawyer fees can differ from state to state and may be subject to local regulations. In general, personal injury attorneys work under contingency agreements entitling them to 33% of any related settlement or award. Sometimes lawyers use a sliding contingency, charging 33% for awards agreed upon during pre-trial negotiations and raising the fee to 40% once the matter goes to trial.

• When do I need to hire a personal injury lawyer?

  Anytime an injury is known or suspected to be the result of negligence, it's a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney who can offer insight into the validity of a claim and whether or not that claim is worth pursuing legally. A consultation is particularly important if someone has suffered serious injuries that have left them disabled or otherwise impacted their financial future or quality of life.

• Can I file a personal injury claim without a lawyer?

  It's possible to pursue a personal injury claim without an attorney; however, it's best to save self-representation for cases involving minor injuries or are otherwise considered straightforward. Cases that involve serious injuries that are not completely resolved or where liability has yet to be determined are more complex. Those situations can quickly become stressful and time consuming as they require an understanding of tort law, resources for gathering medical records, and time to review photographs and evidence pertaining to the injury and scene of the accident (if applicable). Bringing on an experienced personal injury lawyer could result in a higher reward while giving the injured party more time to concentrate on their physical, mental, and emotional recovery.

• How long does a personal injury lawsuit last?

  The length of time it takes to settle a personal injury lawsuit is highly dependent on a number of factors ranging from the type of case to the length of medical treatment to whether the suit is settled before court or requires a long trial. While most personal injury cases are resolved within two years, more complicated suits could take longer.

• What are the benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer?

  It's tempting to save on lawyer's fees by pursuing self-representation, but there are many benefits to hiring a personal injury lawyer including their years of experience. A good attorney will know how to properly assess your damages, including not just medical bills but other concerns, such as lost wages and pain and suffering, to craft a demand that fully reflects the compensation to which the injured party is entitled. They also have the resources and knowledge necessary to consult with experts, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, properly navigate the legal system, and otherwise ensure the best possible outcome.