Understanding Personal Injury Lawsuits in Delaware: A Q&A with Top Lawyer Frederick S. Freibott

Personal injury lawsuits can be complex and overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident. To help navigate this process, we spoke with Frederick S. Freibott, a top personal injury lawyer in Delaware, to answer some common questions and provide insights into the legal process. In this article, we’ll cover important topics such as steps to take after an accident, proving liability, and finding the right personal injury attorney in Delaware. Let’s dive in!

What are the crucial steps to take after an accident to protect my rights?

After an accident, it’s essential to take the following steps to protect your rights:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. This can help establish a link between the accident and your injuries.
2. Report the accident to the appropriate authorities, such as the police or your employer if it occurred at work.
3. Document evidence, such as taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Also, collect contact information from witnesses and keep track of your medical records and expenses.
4. Consult with a personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance companies. They can guide you through the process and ensure you don’t make any statements that could harm your case.

Remember, it’s not recommended to give a recorded statement to an insurance company without consulting a lawyer first. They may try to use your words against you to minimize their payout.

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Delaware?

In Delaware, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. However, there are some exceptions, such as cases involving minors or government entities. It’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.

How is liability proven in a Delaware personal injury case?

Proving liability for an accident in Delaware typically involves establishing negligence. This means showing that the responsible party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries as a result. For example, a driver who runs a red light and causes a car accident may be found negligent for failing to obey traffic laws.

Delaware follows a legal doctrine called modified comparative negligence, which may affect your personal injury claim if you are partially at fault for the accident. Under this rule, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your own negligence. However, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering any damages.

What types of compensation can I receive in a personal injury claim?

Compensation in a personal injury claim may include economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover your financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, compensate you for more intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Personal injury settlements vary widely and depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the long-term impact of those injuries, and the level of negligence of the responsible party. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you evaluate your case and determine the potential value of your claim.

How do I find the right personal injury attorney in Delaware?

Finding the right personal injury attorney in Delaware is crucial for the best possible outcome for your case. Look for an attorney with experience in handling cases similar to yours, a strong track record of success, and excellent communication skills. You should also consider factors such as their reputation, client reviews, and availability to answer your questions and concerns.

Don’t be afraid to interview multiple attorneys before making a decision. Most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, which can help you get a sense of their approach and whether they’re a good fit for your case.

Conclusion

Dealing with a personal injury lawsuit can be a confusing and overwhelming process. It’s essential to know your rights and have a skilled attorney like Frederick S. Freibott on your side to guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident in Delaware, don’t hesitate to reach out to a top personal injury attorney for assistance.