COVID-19 has upended life worldwide. This includes the legal system in Southern Arizona, which has faced court closures and delays, as well as restrictions on visits to attorneys. Challenges in receiving prompt and thorough medical attention, along with staffing problems at insurance companies, have also impacted the speed with which personal injury claims are resolved. However, even though the civil litigation process might have slowed down, it is still moving forward. If you have been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, or another scenario where someone else’s negligence is to blame, do not wait for the coronavirus pandemic to pass before reaching out to an attorney to represent you. Now, as in the past, promptly discussing your case with an attorney can pay huge dividends down the line when it comes to receiving full and fair compensation for your losses.
Showard Law Firm can help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries. Call today for a free case review.
Essential Businesses
Because the government considers both insurance companies and law firms as essential businesses, neither stopped working during the pandemic. There was a period of adjustment that is still ongoing in many cases, but lawyers and insurers are now familiar with this new normal.
In many cases, face-to-face meetings in an attorney’s office are still possible, albeit with social distancing measures in place, though meetings are also now being conducted via phone and video sessions.
What to Do While Waiting for Your Personal Injury Lawsuit to Be Resolved
There is no question the pandemic has extended the time in which a personal injury case will be settled or heads to trial. Your lawyer will keep you posted on the details of your lawsuit. In the meantime, there are things you must do while waiting for the outcome of your claim.
Make sure you keep up with all medical treatments and medications. Not following the doctor’s orders can harm your claim. You may no longer have the option of seeing the doctor in person, but many healthcare providers are offering telemedicine appointments via videoconferencing. If you do not stay on your treatment regimen, the insurance company may allege you were not that badly hurt or even that your injuries result from a pre-existing condition or another cause.
If you do decide to visit a doctor’s office in person, contact them ahead of time to find out what kind of preventative measures they are taking.
Courtroom Alternatives
Though the courts are moving more slowly, they are still hearing cases. Many courts are offering alternatives to personal appearances by allowing people to attend virtually. New safety rules, including mask-wearing, have been put in place to protect people who do attend court in-person. Additionally, courts can receive new filings electronically.
Statute of Limitations Are Not Affected by COVID-19
Keep in mind that the coronavirus has NOT changed the deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. If you do not file your claim within that 2-year time period, you may forfeit your right to pursue damages in court.
Contact a Tucson Personal Injury Lawyer
If your or someone you know was seriously injured as a result of another party’s negligence, you will benefit greatly from having the experience and knowhow of a personal injury attorney at Showard Law Firm on your side. Schedule a free consultation by completing our online form or calling or texting 24/7.
Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you do not pay a fee unless you receive compensation. Se habla Espanol.
