Experienced Raleigh Personal Injury Lawyers
Raleigh’s Trusted Personal Injury Attorneys — We Fight for You!
On top of dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation expenses associated with an accident, navigating the complex legal process can feel like another hurdle to overcome. Our dedicated team of Raleigh personal injury lawyers is committed to helping victims of accidents and negligence seek justice, fair compensation, and the support they deserve. We understand that each injury is unique, and we take a personalized approach to every case, ensuring that our clients are treated with the respect and care they need during a difficult time.
At Henson Fuerst, we have extensive experience handling a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, slips and falls, medical malpractice, workers' compensation, and wrongful death claims. Whether your injury was caused by someone else's negligence or intentional actions, our attorneys work tirelessly to gather the evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your best interests.
Our goal is to relieve the legal burden from your shoulders, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your recovery. From the initial consultation to the final resolution of your case, we will be there for you every step of the way. Our team is prepared to handle every aspect of your personal injury claim, ensuring you have the legal support you need to pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, pain, and suffering.
With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, our Raleigh personal injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and provide you with the trusted legal representation you need. Let us help you secure the justice you deserve so you can focus on moving forward with your life.
Our goal is to relieve the legal burden from your shoulders, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your recovery. From the initial consultation to the final resolution of your case, we will be there for you every step of the way. Our team is prepared to handle every aspect of your personal injury claim, ensuring you have the legal support you need to pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, pain, and suffering.
With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, our Raleigh personal injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and provide you with the trusted legal representation you need. Let us help you secure the justice you deserve so you can focus on moving forward with your life.
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Let Our Law Firm Help You After an Accident
Types of Personal Injury Claims We Handle
Car Accidents
Car accidents are one of the most common types of personal injury claims. Whether you’ve been involved in a fender-bender or a serious crash, if someone else's negligence caused your injury, we can help. Our team will work diligently to investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and ensure you get the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Truck Accidents
Accidents involving large trucks can cause serious and life-altering injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. These accidents often involve complex factors due to federal regulations and the parties involved. At Henson Fuerst, we understand the unique challenges of truck accident cases and will guide you through the entire legal process.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are vulnerable to serious injury when struck by a vehicle. Whether you were crossing the street or walking in a parking lot, if a driver failed to yield the right of way or was negligent, you may be entitled to compensation. Our team will help protect your rights and fight for the necessary care and compensation for your injuries.
Motorcycle Accidents
Due to the limited protection motorcycles offer, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of severe injury in accidents. Whether another driver failed to notice you or road conditions were hazardous, we can help you seek justice. Our experienced attorneys will fight for your right to compensation, including for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost income.
Slips and Falls
Slip-and-fall accidents can occur anywhere, from grocery stores to parking lots, leading to significant injuries. Property owners have a responsibility to maintain safe premises. If you've been injured due to a dangerous condition, such as a wet floor or uneven surface, our lawyers will help hold the property owner accountable for negligence.
Dog Bites
Injuries from dog bites can lead to both physical and emotional trauma. If a dog attacks you due to the owner's negligence or failure to control their pet, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Our team at Henson Fuerst will work with you to build a strong case and seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Dangerous and Defective Products
When products are poorly designed or defectively manufactured, they can cause serious harm. If a dangerous or defective product has injured you, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. Our legal team has the extensive experience and in-depth knowledge to take on large corporations and help fight for the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.
Work-Related Injuries
Workplace injuries can occur in any industry, from construction to office settings. North Carolina workers' compensation laws provide benefits for those injured on the job. If your injury was caused by someone other than your employer, you may also have a personal injury claim. We can help you understand your rights and pursue both workers' compensation and personal injury claims.
Personal Injury News
Our Raleigh personal injury attorneys strive to keep our community educated and informed about the latest trends and events regarding personal injury law and related topics. Browse our most recent blog posts here:
Types of Damages in Personal Injury Cases
In personal injury cases, victims may be entitled to various types of damages designed to compensate for the financial, physical, and emotional impact an injury can have. Each category of damages serves to restore, as closely as possible, the victim's life to what it was before the injury. The types of damages available in North Carolina personal injury cases include:
Medical Expenses
In personal injury cases, compensation for medical expenses is one of the most essential damages awarded. This includes the costs of treating your injury, which can be significant depending on the severity. Medical expenses typically cover emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and ambulance fees incurred during the initial stages of treatment.
In addition to immediate care, you may also seek compensation for ongoing treatments like physical or occupational therapy, medications for pain relief, and medical equipment such as crutches or braces. Future medical treatments, including long-term care, can also be included in cases of severe injury. The primary goal of claiming these damages is to ensure you are not left financially responsible for the necessary medical care resulting from your injury.
Lost Wages
If your injury prevents you from working, you can seek compensation for lost wages, covering the income you missed while recovering. This includes time off for doctor visits, surgeries, or bed rest. Additionally, you may be entitled to compensation for lost earning capacity if your injury results in long-term disability or reduces your ability to work in the future.
Lost earning capacity is particularly significant if your injury impacts your career or ability to perform essential tasks, such as lifting or driving. These damages are meant to offset the financial hardships caused by your inability to work, helping you support yourself and your family during recovery.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages are designed to compensate for the physical and emotional distress caused by an injury. Unlike medical expenses, these damages are not based on bills but reflect the personal suffering you endure. Physical pain compensation covers discomfort from the injury, including limitations in movement and the effects of surgeries or rehabilitation.
Emotional distress is another aspect of pain and suffering that compensates a victim for anxiety, depression, or trauma resulting from the injury, which is common in cases involving severe trauma like car accidents or brain injuries. Additionally, if your injury prevents you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones, you may also be entitled to compensation for this loss of enjoyment. While calculating pain and suffering can be subjective, experienced personal injury lawyers can help assess a fair value based on the specific impact your injury has had on your life.
Property Damage
In personal injury cases involving accidents, such as car or truck accidents, victims are often entitled to compensation for property damage. This typically includes the costs of repairing or replacing a damaged vehicle, whether it's a car, motorcycle, or other type of vehicle.
Additionally, compensation may cover damage to personal property, like cell phones, computers, or clothing affected during the accident. These damages are intended to ensure that you do not face financial losses due to property damage caused by an accident that wasn't your fault.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages differ from compensatory damages and aim to reimburse you for losses by focusing on punishing the defendant for especially reckless or malicious behavior. These damages are designed to deter similar actions in the future, promoting safety and accountability.
In personal injury cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant acted with gross negligence, malice, or a willful disregard for others' safety. Examples of behavior that could lead to punitive damages include drunk driving, intentional harm (such as assault), or gross negligence, where the defendant's actions show extreme disregard for safety. Though not awarded in every case, punitive damages are meant to punish severe misconduct and discourage others from engaging in similar behavior.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Raleigh
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of the injury. In most cases, you have three years to initiate legal action and seek compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. However, it's essential to recognize that various factors specific to your case can influence this three-year window.
For example, claims involving government entities or medical malpractice, may have different time limits or require special procedures. Additionally, in some cases, the clock for the statute of limitations may not start until the injury is discovered, particularly in medical malpractice cases or when the injury isn’t immediately apparent. Other exceptions could apply depending on the circumstances, such as if the injured party is a minor or the responsible party has left the state.
If you miss the deadline set by the statute of limitations, you could lose your legal right to pursue compensation. This is why it’s crucial to act quickly after an injury occurs. Filing within the statute of limitations allows your case to be considered. It protects your right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injury.
To ensure your case is filed correctly and on time, it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can guide you on the specific timelines that apply to your case and help you take the necessary steps to protect your rights. Don’t wait—contact a knowledgeable Raleigh personal injury lawyer today to discuss your case and ensure you meet all legal deadlines to ensure your claim is successful.
If you miss the deadline set by the statute of limitations, you could lose your legal right to pursue compensation. This is why it’s crucial to act quickly after an injury occurs. Filing within the statute of limitations allows your case to be considered. It protects your right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injury.
To ensure your case is filed correctly and on time, it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can guide you on the specific timelines that apply to your case and help you take the necessary steps to protect your rights. Don’t wait—contact a knowledgeable Raleigh personal injury lawyer today to discuss your case and ensure you meet all legal deadlines to ensure your claim is successful.
"I have had a great experience with Henson Fuerst, specifically with Attorney Eric Goodale. He is a Social Security disability specialist at the firm. I was in capable, experienced hands through the whole process. He put me at ease from the get-go and has over 20 years experience in Social Security disability law. I would not hesitate to refer anyone to the firm and specifically Attorney Goodale if they are dealing with a disability issue."
Seamus
Disability Applicant
How to File a Personal Injury Claim in Raleigh, North Carolina
Filing a personal injury claim can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming process, especially while you are dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial impact of your injury. At Henson Fuerst, we are committed to guiding you through each step with clear communication, sound advice, and dedicated legal representation. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the personal injury claim process in Raleigh:
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Step 1
Meet with One of Our Attorneys
The first step in filing a personal injury claim is to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. During this meeting, we’ll review the details of your case, including the accident itself, the parties involved, and the extent of your injuries. We’ll also assess how the injury has impacted your life through lost wages, medical treatment, and emotional distress.
Our consultations are free and come with no obligation to pursue a claim afterward. This is an opportunity for you to understand your legal options and get professional insight into the strength of your case. If you have a valid claim, we’ll explain the next steps and what to expect moving forward. We’ll also assess who may be liable for your injuries and whether there’s enough evidence to proceed.
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Step 2
Gathering Evidence and Assessing Injuries
Once you decide to pursue a personal injury claim, the next step is a thorough investigation of the accident and your injuries. This phase is critical for building a strong case. It involves gathering all available evidence, such as police reports, photos of the accident scene, video footage, medical records, and other relevant documents supporting your claim.
Our attorneys will also interview witnesses who observed the accident or have helpful information, as their statements can help establish negligence or liability. Additionally, we may consult with experts, such as medical professionals or accident reconstructionists, to assess the cause of the accident and the full extent of your injuries. These expert opinions provide valuable testimony that strengthens your case. Finally, we’ll review your medical treatment and any future care you may need to determine the compensation to seek, covering current and future medical expenses. This investigation phase lays the foundation for your case, and the more evidence we gather, the stronger your claim becomes.
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Step 3
Working to Secure a Fair Settlement
After thoroughly investigating your case, the next step is negotiating with the insurance companies or defendants involved. The goal is to reach a fair settlement that compensates you for all you've endured. We will begin by preparing a detailed demand letter outlining the evidence of the other party's liability, the severity of your injuries, and the compensation you seek.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so having an experienced attorney can be beneficial. We’ll handle all communication with the insurer and negotiate on your behalf to ensure they fully understand the extent of your damages. If successful, this can lead to a quick resolution without going to trial. However, we are prepared to take further legal action if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
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Step 4
Preparing for Court If a Settlement Cannot Be Reached
We are fully prepared to take your personal injury case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. First, we will file a lawsuit, ensure all legal documents are in order, and meet the necessary deadlines. Then, we will enter the discovery phase, where both sides exchange evidence, gather witness testimony, and build their cases. Our team will handle this process, collecting all crucial information to strengthen your claim.
We will also thoroughly prepare you for trial, gathering expert witnesses and presenting medical evidence to support your case. If the case goes to court, our experienced litigators will advocate for your rights before a judge or jury and work to secure the maximum compensation you need. While the trial process can be daunting, you can trust that our knowledgeable attorneys will guide you and fight diligently on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The length of a personal injury case varies depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases are resolved in a few months, while others take several years. Our attorneys will keep you updated on the progress of your case and work hard to reach a fair resolution as quickly as possible.
Pain and suffering damages are meant to compensate you for the physical and emotional distress caused by your injuries. These damages are subjective and can vary based on the severity of your injuries, the length of your recovery, and your quality of life. Factors such as the intensity of your pain, your emotional suffering, and the long-term effects of the injury are considered.
The most common methods for calculating pain and suffering include the multiplier method, where your economic damages (e.g., medical expenses) are multiplied by a number based on the severity of your injury, and the per diem method, where you’re compensated for each day you experience pain and suffering.
At Henson Fuerst, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if we win your case. Our goal is to ensure injured individuals have access to high-quality legal representation without worrying about upfront legal fees.
While handling a personal injury case alone is possible, hiring a trusted lawyer has several benefits. A personal injury attorney can:
- Help you navigate complex legal procedures
- Ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if necessary
Our Injury Attorneys fight to get you the maximum compensation necessary for your recovery.
$3.25M Settlement
A commercial truck driver ignored DOT caution signs regarding a previous crash. The tractor-trailer crashed into our client, who was the last car in the line of traffic. The plaintiff was taken to the hospital and discharged with post-traumatic headache. Months later, our client was diagnosed with many more injuries that resulted from the accident and was unable to return to competitive employment. The settlement was collected in full.
Speak with a Raleigh Personal Injury Lawyer at Henson Fuerst for Free Today
At Henson Fuerst, we are committed to fighting for the rights of injury victims and have over 45 years of experience. Our team of compassionate personal injury lawyers is dedicated to ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you need to recover. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges of injury due to someone else’s negligence. That’s why we offer a no-obligation, free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case and help you understand your legal options moving forward.
If you’ve been injured in an accident or due to another party's reckless or negligent actions, don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Insurance companies and at-fault parties may try to take advantage of you—working with a trusted Raleigh personal injury lawyer can help level the playing field and protect your rights. At Henson Fuerst, we will fight tirelessly on your behalf. We will use our decades of experience and resources to pursue maximum compensation for your pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the justice you deserve. Our experienced team is here to listen, advise, and guide you through the legal process with confidence. Reach out now—your consultation is completely free and confidential. Let us help you move forward after an injury.
If you’ve been injured in an accident or due to another party's reckless or negligent actions, don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Insurance companies and at-fault parties may try to take advantage of you—working with a trusted Raleigh personal injury lawyer can help level the playing field and protect your rights. At Henson Fuerst, we will fight tirelessly on your behalf. We will use our decades of experience and resources to pursue maximum compensation for your pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the justice you deserve. Our experienced team is here to listen, advise, and guide you through the legal process with confidence. Reach out now—your consultation is completely free and confidential. Let us help you move forward after an injury.