Personal Injury Lawyer FAQs

Most people have very limited experience when it comes to dealing with the legalities involved in personal injury cases—until they find themselves in a difficult situation and in need of guidance. Personal injury law is a complex field and every case presents unique questions; experienced personal injury lawyers—like those at the Lomax Law Firm—can be an invaluable resource. In the meantime, we have compiled some common questions below, to help you better understand your case, what to expect, and how a lawyer can help.

How do I know whether I have a personal injury case?

If you have been injured in an accident and your injury can be traced to the careless or negligent actions of another person, you may have a personal injury claim under Canadian law. Even if you’re not sure, or even if it’s not clear who was responsible, it is always advisable to consult with a personal injury lawyer to discuss your accident and learn more about your legal options.

Are there time limits on when I can file a lawsuit?

Yes. In many cases, you have just two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, but these limitation periods vary depending on the facts of your case and the type of personal injury you are claiming. Some claims may be subject to even shorter deadlines. Once this kind of legal deadline passes, you may lose your legal rights to any compensation for your injury. This is why it’s advisable to talk with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible following your injury.

What should I expect from my first appointment with my lawyer?

Some lawyers in the London, Ontario, area—including the Lomax Law Firm—offer a free initial consultation. You will be able to talk with a lawyer, who will examine the merits of your case and determine what your legal options are; your lawyer can also make recommendations about what your next steps should be. In preparing for your consultation, be sure you have available any documentation about your accident, including police reports, medical reports, and doctor or hospital bills. The more information you can provide, the more helpful your consultation will be.

What if I die before my case is complete? Can anything be done for my family?

Personal injury claims may be brought by the family of an injured person in the event of their death. This is called a wrongful death lawsuit and may provide for monetary damages to be paid to surviving family members.

What exactly is “negligence”?

Negligence is a complex legal term. In brief, a person is negligent when he or she fails to act in a way that an ordinary reasonable person would be expected to act in a given situation, and that breach of duty causes or contributes to another person’s injury. The determination of negligence is almost always made by a jury following presentation of evidence demonstrating the negligent behavior.

Will the responsible party be punished?

The goal of a personal injury lawsuit is not to punish someone, but merely to make them take responsibility in the matter. In most cases, this is accomplished through compensation to cover the injured party’s expenses associated with the negligent, careless, or reckless behavior.

Rein Lomax and his experienced team of personal injury lawyers are ready to help answer all of your questions and help you seek the compensation you need. Call today for your free initial consultation.