Accidents happen unexpectedly, giving you no time to prepare or call for help. Going for a morning walk and getting struck by a vehicle or slipping on a wet floor at the mall – injuries caused by someone else’s negligence can be emotionally exhausting.
Having a sound understanding of personal injury law and knowing when to hire a lawyer can make a world of difference. If you’re wondering which situations are eligible for compensation, this guide is for you.
Here’s a detailed explanation of six situations where hiring a personal injury lawyer becomes absolutely necessary:
You Suffered from a Workplace Injury
If you’ve been injured at your workplace, be it a construction site or an office building, you’re eligible for workers’ compensation. It is a state-mandated program that provides coverage for both monetary and non-monetary damages, including medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation services, and emotional suffering.
However, navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging for someone who has never been involved in civil litigation. Personal injury lawyers know the ins and outs of such legal procedures and can provide invaluable support during difficult situations.
A personal injury lawyer will gather all the necessary documents to support your claim. This includes a detailed account of your incident, medical reports, and additional evidence, such as pictures and videos. They have ample experience negotiating with insurance companies, helping you secure a higher settlement.
Workplace injuries, such as slips, falls, back strains, exposure to hazardous materials, and electrocutions, can deteriorate the quality of your life. Hire a personal injury lawyer to hold your employer accountable for negligence and create a safe environment for your fellow workers.
You Suffered from Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide standard medical care, leading to devastating consequences for the patients and their families. Examples of medical negligence include incorrect medicine dosage, surgical errors, poor aftercare, or childbirth mistakes.
The National Institute of Health found that nearly 10,000 Americans lose their lives due to medical malpractice every year, whereas hundreds of thousands more suffer from adverse reactions. You’re more than a statistic. File a medical malpractice lawsuit to hold healthcare professionals accountable.
A specialized personal injury lawyer has in-depth knowledge of medical procedures and can identify potential negligence. They will gather the necessary documents and determine if you have a valid claim. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, a personal injury lawyer saves you from further emotional suffering and ensures peace of mind.
You Took a Fall at Someone Else’s Property
Property owners are required by law to maintain safe premises for visitors. If their negligence, such as a wet floor, uneven pavement, or poor lighting, has caused you to fall, you can have a valid claim under premises liability laws. During such situations, a personal injury lawyer can protect your rights and help you secure fair compensation.
A personal injury lawyer will file a legal claim on your behalf, gather the evidence, interview the witnesses, and assess the extent of your injury. They will also consult with subject matter experts, such as medical professionals, to bring credibility and legitimacy to your case.
In a premises liability case, the status of the visitor has a critical impact on the result. Visitors are generally categorized into three groups: invitee, licensee, and trespasser.
Invitees and licensees have a legal right to be present on a property for business or public purposes. Whereas, trespassers enter a property without consent. Experienced attorneys, such as personal injury lawyer Rick Barrera, will check your status and determine the best course of action.
Premises liability cases can go in varying directions. Most of the time, the defendant tries to make you partially responsible for the incident (e.g., wearing improper footwear or being distracted). They might argue that your disregard for safety regulations led to slip and fall. A dedicated personal injury lawyer will counter these claims and advise you on settlement options.
You Were Injured Due to a Defective Product
In addition to premises liability, there are also cases of product liability. It occurs when a consumer suffers from injury or disease due to a defective product. Product liability claims typically fall into three categories: faulty design, manufacturing defects, and improper marketing or usage instructions.
Take, for instance, you have installed car airbags. If the airbags had defects, such as explosion upon deployment, and led to physical harm, you can file a product liability claim. Experienced attorneys will assess the case and hold the responsible party accountable, be it the manufacturers or retailers.
There have been numerous high-end product liability cases in US history, ranging from faulty automobile parts to harmful pharmaceuticals. Personal injury lawyers have in-depth knowledge and experience, helping you seek compensation for all minor and major damages.
You Were Struck by a Vehicle
Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of personal injury. Getting struck by a vehicle, whether as a pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver, can lead to catastrophic injuries, such as loss of limbs and paralysis.
If the driver was speeding, distracted, or negligent, you have the right to take legal action and gain compensation. A personal injury lawyer will gather traffic footage, police reports, and witness statements to make your case bulletproof.
If you’ve suffered from severe injuries, such as broken bones, loss of limbs, and permanent disability, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney becomes even more important. They will ensure coverage for medical bills, lost wages, physiotherapy, and even emotional distress.
You Were Bitten by Someone’s Dog
Dog bite injuries can be terrifying, leading to physical harm, emotional distress, and financial strain. You might have to pay hefty medical bills for ongoing treatment and surgery. In most US states, dog owners are liable for any injuries caused by their dog, whether or not they were negligent.
With legal representation, you might find yourself in a difficult situation. The dog owner’s insurance company will try to settle for a low payout, claiming you either provoked the dog or that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Personal injury lawyers have the right resources to prove your claim and maximize compensation.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with the aftermath of a personal injury requires patience and a helping hand. Give yourself the time to heal and let an attorney handle complex legal procedures. By seeking professional legal help, you’re not only protecting your rights but allowing yourself to rebuild your life.
