Personal Injury Law: Answers To Commonly Asked Questions
At Wampler & Souder, LLC, our attorneys advocate for injured persons in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. We understand that the claim process can feel confusing and complicated. Our experienced personal injury lawyers will walk you through each step of the case so you can proceed with confidence.
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about personal injury claims. If you have additional questions, call our firm at 301-732-7675 to schedule a free initial case consultation. You can also contact us online. For your convenience, we have offices in Frederick, Silver Spring and Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
What types of damages can I collect for my personal injury claim?
If you file a personal injury claim in Maryland or Virginia, you can pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation costs
- Property damage caused in the accident
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning potential
- Permanent disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
Do I have to go to court if I file a personal injury claim?
Not necessarily. Most personal injury cases settle before going to court. However, if we are unable to secure a fair settlement offer through negotiation, our trial lawyers will not hesitate to take your case to court.
Is my personal injury settlement taxed?
Typically, the damages you collect from a personal injury claim are not taxable under state or federal law. However, punitive damages and any interest on your verdict are taxable. If you have questions about this, our attorneys are happy to explain how this will apply to your specific case.
How long does it take to settle a personal injury claim?
The time that it takes to settle a personal injury claim can greatly vary. In general, the more complex the case and the more severe the injuries, the longer your claim will take. Your claim may also take longer if we are unable to secure a reasonable settlement offer and decide to take your case to court.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys can provide a better estimated timeline after discussing the facts of your case.
How do I cover my medical bills until the personal injury settlement is complete?
The options available for covering medical bills vary depending on the case. Vehicle insurance or medical insurance may cover some of the costs. You may also be able to get treated by a doctor or hospital under a lien. This means that you agree to pay your medical bills once the personal injury settlement is finalized. We can work with you to determine the best way to address your bills until you receive compensation for your injuries.
If you are temporarily unable to work due to your injury, you may also be able to get compensation through your employer’s short- or long-term disability insurance to help make up for the lost wages.
What type of information should I bring to meet with my personal injury attorney?
When you first meet with Wampler & Souder’s personal injury attorneys to discuss your case, bring as much information about your accident and injuries as possible. This may include:
- Police report from the accident
- Names and contact information for the other parties
- Doctor reports and medical receipts
- Photographs of the accident scene
- Witness testimony and the contact information of witnesses
- Pay slips to document lost wages
- Receipts for any other financial costs associated with your injury, including property damage and the travel costs of getting to appointments
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?
All personal injury cases are accepted on a contingency basis. This means that you do not owe us any attorney fees unless we successfully recover damages on your behalf.