I was recently involved in a serious accident and now require surgery. Should I consider filing a lawsuit?
This was my first major accident, and since I wasn’t at fault, I’m uncertain about the next steps. I’m a 23-year-old woman and have confirmed that I need surgery to repair a labral tear in one of my hips. I also have a less severe tear in my other hip, so the need for surgery there is still uncertain. I just had an MRI on my spine last Wednesday and will receive results next week to determine if I have a spinal injury. I’ve been experiencing numbness in my foot and shooting pain down my leg. It’s painful to sit or stand, and driving is especially difficult. I’m worried about potential long-term issues from this accident, especially considering my age.
Some people close to me are encouraging me to hire a lawyer, but I’m concerned that after paying legal fees (which are typically one-third of any settlement in my area), I might not have enough left to cover all my medical expenses. My medical insurance will likely pursue reimbursement from any settlement. So far, I’ve undergone two X-rays and two MRIs due to this accident. If I decide not to sue, my health coverage is quite good, and my out-of-pocket costs should be limited to around $2,000 for the surgery deductible and co-pays.
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation. It’s totally understandable to feel overwhelmed after a major accident and the prospect of surgery. Since you were not at fault, it may be worth considering legal action, especially given your ongoing medical issues and potential long-term effects.
Here are a few things to think about:
Consult a Lawyer: It might be beneficial to have a consultation with a personal injury lawyer to discuss your specific case. Many lawyers offer free consultations, so you can get an idea of whether pursuing a lawsuit makes sense for you without any upfront cost.
Consider Future Costs: While your current medical bills may seem manageable, think about the potential long-term impact of your injuries. If you end up needing additional treatments, therapy, or surgeries in the future, having compensation might help cover those costs.
Insurance and Medical Bills: It’s good that you have decent medical coverage. However, note that if you win a lawsuit, your insurance might come after the settlement for reimbursement. A lawyer can help you navigate this aspect, too.
Compensation for Pain and Suffering: Besides just medical bills, there’s also the potential for compensation for pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, and other damages, which might make pursuing a case worthwhile even after lawyer fees.
Statute of Limitations: Be mindful of the time limits for filing a personal injury claim in your area. If you wait too long, you might lose the right to take legal action.
Ultimately, talking to a qualified personal injury attorney who can assess the details of your case may help clarify your options. Take your time to weigh your decisions, and prioritize your health and recovery.