Know When Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit is Right for You

An accident can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. Medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain can quickly become overwhelming, especially if the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. While not every accident requires legal action, there are situations where filing a personal injury lawsuit may be the most effective way to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

At Napierski, VanDenburgh, Napierski & O’Connor, LLP, we help injured individuals in the Albany, NY area understand their legal options and determine whether pursuing a personal injury lawsuit is appropriate for their situation. If you’ve been injured and you’re wondering whether filing a lawsuit is the right course of action, check to see if any of these situations apply to you. 

When Injuries Are Serious or Long-Lasting

One of the clearest indicators that you should consider a personal injury lawsuit is the severity of your injuries. Minor injuries that heal quickly may be resolved through an insurance claim alone. However, if your injuries are serious, permanent, or require ongoing medical care, the financial impact can be substantial.

Severe injuries often require significant medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost earning capacity. In these cases, a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to recover compensation that truly reflects the long-term effects of your injuries.

When Liability Is Disputed

Insurance companies do not always accept responsibility, even when fault seems clear. If the at-fault party or their insurer disputes liability or attempts to shift blame onto you, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be the only way to hold them accountable.

An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to demonstrate how the other party’s negligence caused your injuries.

When Insurance Settlements Are Inadequate

Always remember that insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to minimize payouts whenever possible. If you receive a settlement offer that does not cover your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, you may want to consider legal action.

A personal injury lawsuit allows our attorneys to pursue full and fair compensation through negotiation or, if necessary, litigation. Many cases settle before trial, but the ability to file a lawsuit often gives you greater leverage during settlement discussions.

When Multiple Parties May Be Responsible

Some accidents involve more than one responsible party. For example, a car accident may involve multiple drivers, or a workplace injury could include liability on the part of a property owner or contractor. These cases can quickly become complex.

Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable, increasing the likelihood of recovering appropriate compensation.

When Your Injury Affects Your Ability to Work

If your injury prevents you from working temporarily or permanently, the financial strain can be severe. Lost wages and reduced earning capacity are critical components of many personal injury claims.

A personal injury lawsuit can work to secure compensation, not only for current lost income but also for future earnings you may miss because of your injuries. This is particularly important for individuals whose injuries limit their ability to return to their previous profession.

When the Statute of Limitations Is Approaching

In New York, personal injury claims are subject to strict time limits. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to pursue compensation altogether. If the statute of limitations is approaching and your claim has not been fairly resolved, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to preserve your legal rights.

Consulting with a personal injury attorney as early as possible can help ensure deadlines are met and critical evidence is preserved.

How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

Deciding whether to file a personal injury lawsuit is not always straightforward. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can evaluate the facts of your case, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process.

At Napierski, VanDenburgh, Napierski & O’Connor, LLP, we are committed to helping injured individuals in Albany, NY pursue justice and fair compensation. We handle the legal complexities so our clients can focus on healing and moving forward.

Speak With a Trusted Albany, NY Personal Injury Attorney

If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence and are unsure whether filing a personal injury lawsuit is right for you, seeking legal guidance is an important first step. Every case is unique, and understanding your rights can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Contact Napierski, VanDenburgh, Napierski & O’Connor, LLP to discuss your situation with a dedicated personal injury attorney who understands the challenges you are facing and is prepared to advocate on your behalf.