A Personal injury lawyer is a legal professional who helps accident victims pursue fair settlements and take those responsible to court. They help with legal hurdles, medical access and insurance coverage. They can also navigate complex legal processes and even take on the role of the aggressor when necessary to ensure justice is served.

When choosing a personal injury lawyer, look for an attorney with experience in your specific type of case. Car accident injuries often involve multiple parties and require an expert team to investigate the details of the incident. If you’re seeking compensation for a workplace injury, it’s important to hire a lawyer familiar with labor laws and occupational hazards.

The first step a personal injury lawyer takes is to evaluate the strength of a client’s claim. They will review medical records, witness statements, police reports, official documents and physical evidence such as photographs, videos and damaged property. They will also assess the extent of a plaintiff’s injuries and determine their long-term impact on their quality of life.

New York law allows for a wide variety of damages in personal injury claims, including lost wages and medical expenses. In addition, the state uses a pure comparative fault system that allows litigants to recover partial damages for the percentage of their own negligence that contributed to their injury. An experienced New York personal injury attorney will help a client calculate the value of their claim and build a strong case for maximum financial compensation.

One of the most common reasons to file a personal injury lawsuit is to receive compensation for medical expenses related to an accident. Whether it’s a hospital bill or prescription medications, a successful claim can cover these costs and more. In cases of severe injuries, like spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries, a successful claim can include the value of future medical care as well.

If you’ve been injured in a New York accident, you may need to miss work while you heal. Your personal injury lawyer can use employment records to prove the loss of earnings and help you get fair compensation for these losses.

When a claim is denied or the at-fault party will not offer a fair settlement, your personal injury lawyer can take legal action by filing a lawsuit against them. A personal injury suit typically has a deadline, so make sure your lawyer is knowledgeable about the relevant statutes of limitations in New York. They should also be able to explain all possible claims against the defendant, including vicarious liability – which holds an employer accountable for actions committed by their employees on the job. This is especially relevant in medical malpractice claims.