Scaffold Accident Lawyer NYC: Expectations VS Reality

 If you or a loved one has been involved in a scaffold accident in New York City, you may be considering hiring a lawyer to help you navigate the legal process and fight for compensation. It's important to have realistic expectations about what a scaffold accident lawyer in NYC can do for you, and to understand the limitations of the legal system.

Expectation: A scaffold accident lawyer can get me a large settlement or award.

Reality: While it is possible to obtain a large settlement or award in a scaffold accident case, there are no guarantees. The amount of money you can receive will depend on the specific circumstances of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of medical bills you have incurred, and the amount of lost wages you have suffered.

It's also important to understand that even if you have a strong case, the legal process can be long and complicated. Your lawyer will need to gather evidence, negotiate with the other party's insurance company or legal team, and possibly go to court. All of this takes time, and it can be months or even years before your case is resolved.

Expectation: My lawyer will handle everything for me.

Reality: While your lawyer will be responsible for handling the legal aspects of your case, you will still need to be involved in the process. This may include providing your lawyer with documentation, such as medical records and proof of lost wages, and attending meetings and court proceedings. It's important to be proactive and communicate with your lawyer regularly to ensure that your case is moving forward.

Expectation: I don't have to worry about paying for my lawyer's services.

Reality: Most scaffold accident lawyers in NYC work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they will only get paid if they win your case. If they are successful, their fee will be a percentage of the settlement or award you receive. It's important to understand the terms of your lawyer's contingency fee agreement before hiring them, as there may be additional costs, such as court fees and expert witness fees, that you will be responsible for paying.

Expectation: My case will go to trial.

Reality: While it is possible that your case will go to trial, it's more likely that it will be settled out of court. In fact, the vast majority of personal injury cases, including scaffold accident cases, are resolved through settlement negotiations. This can be a quicker and less stressful process than going to trial, but it's important to have a lawyer who is prepared to take your case to court if necessary.

Expectation: I can file a lawsuit anytime.

Reality: There are time limits, or statutes of limitations, on when you can file a lawsuit for a scaffold accident in NYC. In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, so it's important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to determine the applicable deadline in your case.

In conclusion, it's important to have realistic expectations when hiring a scaffold accident lawyer in NYC. While a lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and fight for compensation, there are no guarantees, and you will still need to be involved in the process. It's also important to understand the terms of your lawyer's fee agreement and the applicable statutes of limitations. By understanding these realities, you can make informed decisions about your legal options and be better prepared for the legal process.