Frequently Asked Questions

Move to safety if possible, call 911, exchange information with other drivers, take photos of the scene, and seek medical attention even if you feel fine. Document everything, as injuries and evidence can emerge later. At Law Offices of Harjot Singh P.C, we recommend contacting an attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters.

Most personal injury claims must be filed within a statute of limitations that varies by state and case type, typically ranging from one to three years. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim. Consulting an attorney early helps preserve your rights and evidence.

A settlement is a negotiated agreement reached outside court, often faster and less costly, while a trial involves presenting your case before a judge or jury. Settlements offer certainty, but trials may result in higher compensation if liability and damages are clear. Most personal injury cases settle before trial.

Yes, in many states you can recover damages even if you share some fault, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Some states bar recovery if you're more than 50% at fault. An attorney can assess how comparative negligence laws apply to your case.

You may recover economic damages like medical bills and lost wages, non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, and in rare cases, punitive damages for egregious conduct. Each case is unique, and documentation strengthens your claim. At Law Offices of Harjot Singh P.C, we help maximize all applicable damages.

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and fees are a percentage of your settlement or verdict, typically 33–40%. If you don't win, you owe no attorney fees. This structure makes legal representation accessible regardless of financial situation.

Contact a lawyer as soon as possible, ideally within days of your injury, to protect evidence, witness statements, and your legal rights. Early involvement helps avoid mistakes like accepting lowball settlement offers or missing filing deadlines. Prompt action strengthens your case outcome.

Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company without legal advice is a common mistake that can hurt your claim. Adjusters may use your words to minimize liability or damages. Always consult an attorney before providing detailed statements or signing releases.

Pain and suffering is often calculated using a multiplier method, where economic damages are multiplied by a factor based on injury severity, or a per diem approach assigning daily value. Severity, duration, and impact on daily life influence the amount. Documentation and expert testimony support these claims.

Yes, initial offers are often far below the true value of your claim, as insurers aim to minimize payouts. An attorney can evaluate whether the offer covers all current and future damages, negotiate higher compensation, and protect you from signing away rights. Most clients recover significantly more with legal representation.