Over the last 13 months, we’ve watched the world cope with a global pandemic that required lockdowns and quarantines. While the vaccine is here and things are starting to return to normal, it’s had an indelible impact on the practice of law. Some things, like remote proceedings, will likely continue into the future. Other factors are unique to this strange situation. Here are some of the ways COVID-19 has specifically affected personal injury law.
Fewer Cases Filed
Overall, fewer personal injury cases have been filed in the last year. Many personal injury victims are hesitant to file suit, thinking that either lawyers aren’t taking cases or courts aren’t hearing them. On the contrary, personal injury attorneys are happy to take on your case. More importantly, you shouldn’t wait to file suit—the statute of limitations (the time in which you can file a lawsuit) continues to toll, even during the pandemic. If you have a case, call a lawyer as soon as possible.
Delayed Access to Medical Treatment
Even now, many people are hesitant to seek medical treatment for non-emergencies—and during the most intense waves of the pandemic, people were actively discouraged from visiting the hospital or doctor’s office. Not only does that make it more difficult to recover from car accidents and other injuries, it means that you will be slower to reach “maximum medical improvement” (MMI). You need to reach MMI in order to determine how much your losses are and how much your case is worth.
Increased Pressure to Settle
Because of the above two points—plus the increased financial strain—personal injury victims are feeling more pressure to settle. You might be tempted to take the first offer the insurance company puts forth simply because you can’t afford to wait. Your attorney can advise you as to whether you should take a settlement now or if it’s prudent to hold out.
Another reason people are feeling pressured to settle is that defendants may not be financially stable enough to pay out. Again, let your attorney advise you as to the best course of action. Even though the pandemic has affected finances, you deserve to be compensated for your losses. A good attorney will take your financial situation into account and fight for the best outcome possible.
Although COVID-19 has affected personal injury law, these factors won’t stop a dedicated lawyer from seeking justice on your behalf.
Don’t Let COVID-19 Stop You from Contacting an Ohio Personal Injury Lawyer
Have you been injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness? Don’t let the pandemic stop you from seeking proper compensation for your losses. You deserve financial justice. Call me at 877.944.4373. I’ll help you explore your legal options, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®.