Attorney Ben H. Langford is committed to assisting those who have suffered a serious personal injury or have lost loved ones. Mr. Langford believes in individual and corporate responsibility, including financial responsibility for intentional wrongful conduct or negligent acts which result in injury or death to others. He is dedicated to helping his clients reestablish their lives and return to the lives they had before suffering a traumatic injury. If you or a loved one has been injured, here are some suggestions on steps you can take to protect yourself: 1. Select your attorney carefully.
You may wish to consult with more than one attorney. Inquire as to the attorney’s experience in handling these types of cases, and whether or not the attorney is certified as a specialist in this area of law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS). Attorneys who are certified by the TBLS have met rigorous requirements including passing a written exam, having a requisite number of years of experience, including the handling of a required number of cases and trials, and fulfilling continuing legal education requirements. 2. Consult an attorney as soon as possible.
The statute of limitations (the time in which a lawsuit must be brought) varies depending on the type of lawsuit, type of injuries, and who is being sued. For example, if your lawsuit is against a government entity, you may have a shorter period of time in which to file a claim than if your lawsuit were against a private individual or entity.
If you fail to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations, you have no legal recourse. Therefore, if you are injured, it is essential for you to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your legal rights before they are barred by law. 3. Keep accurate records of your injuries and losses.
Be accurate; do not exaggerate your injuries or losses. If you go to a medical doctor or other professional, keep track of the professional's name, date of appointment, cost, who paid for it, and type of treatment you received.
Write down and describe the pain you may be experiencing and in which activities you can no longer participate. These may include lost work, inability to take part in hobbies, inability to participate in marital activities, and other events that are now difficult but which you were able to do with ease and enjoy before your injury.
4. Avoid providing a statement on the nature and extent of your injuries to the other party’s insurance company.
The other party’s insurance company has an inherent interest in protecting the interests of their client, and your statement may later be used against you. You should also decline to sign a medical authorization giving the other party’s insurance company access to your medical records without first consulting with your attorney. If the other party’s insurance company should contact you, politely decline to give a statement and inform them that you are doing so on the advice of legal counsel. |
