Personal injury cases are civil legal disputes that arise when one person suffers harm due to the negligent, careless, or intentional actions of another person, organization, or entity. The person who has suffered harm typically seeks compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, and other damages.

The most common personal injury cases involve motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, slip and fall accidents, defective products, and premises liability.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are among the most common types of personal injury cases. When a motor vehicle accident occurs, one or more parties may be found to be at fault. Depending on the circumstances, this can include the vehicle’s driver, other drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, or the car manufacturer or a defective part.

When a person is injured due to another driver’s negligence, they may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to provide the standard of care that a reasonable healthcare provider would provide in a similar situation. Medical malpractice may include misdiagnosis, failure to diagnose, improper treatment, and surgical errors.

When a person suffers harm due to medical malpractice, they may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can cause serious injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, back and neck injuries, and even death. Property owners must take reasonable steps to ensure that their property is safe and free of hazards.

When a person is injured due to a property owner’s negligence, they may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought.

Defective Products

Defective products have a defect that makes them unreasonably dangerous to use. Examples of defective products include medications, medical devices, toys, tools, and household appliances.

When a person is injured due to a defective product, they may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought.

Premises Liability

Premises liability occurs when a person is injured due to a dangerous or hazardous condition on someone else’s property. Property owners have a duty to maintain their property in a safe condition and warn visitors of potential hazards.

When a person is injured due to a property owner’s negligence, they may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought.

Seeking Compensation

The process for seeking compensation for a personal injury will vary depending on the type of case and the jurisdiction. Typically, a person must file a claim or lawsuit against the responsible party to seek compensation.

Sometimes, the claim or lawsuit may be resolved through negotiations or mediation. In other cases, the parties may proceed to trial. In either case, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.