There are many different types of personal injury claims for which the injured party could be entitled to compensation for their loss or suffering. Many people instantly think of car accidents when they hear the term personal injury, or when they think of personal injury lawyers, but there are many other types of injury for which another party may be liable for damages incurred. We’ll talk about these starting with the most common, motor vehicle accidents.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
One of the most common reasons people the help of personal injury lawyers is motor vehicle accident injuries. These incidents can involve cars, motorcycles, trucks, bicycles, or pedestrians and often result from negligent driving, distracted driving, speeding, or impaired driving. Injuries can range from whiplash and broken bones to traumatic brain injuries or death. Insurance companies may try to minimize compensation, making it crucial to have legal representation to fight for fair reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle damage. Regardless of whether it was a rear-end collision or another type of accident, there are many possible contributing causes.
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Distracted driving
- Cell phone use: talking or texting or talking while driving
- Speeding or other reckless driving
- Improper lane changes
- Drunk or impaired driving
Bicycle and motorcycle accidents
Bike and motorcycle injuries can be some of the most severe road incident injuries a person can suffer, since these two-wheel vehicles offer virtually no protection. Injuries can be extensive and long-lasting. Motorcycles hold an even higher possibility of serious injury since they drive at much higher speeds and even on the highway. Injuries could include head and facial injuries, back and neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones and fractures. Some contributing factors in a motorcycle accident personal injury claim could be:
- Severe road defects such as unsafe intersections or potholes
- Negligent or distracted driver. This could include reckless driving or simply texting while driving.
Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries can occur in various environments, especially in high-risk industries like construction, manufacturing, or warehousing. These jobs can include constant exposure to toxic chemicals and/or heavy equipment. Injuries may result from unsafe working conditions, faulty equipment, lack of training, or employer negligence. While workers’ compensation may cover some expenses, it often doesn’t account for all losses or long-term impacts. A personal injury lawyer can help determine if a third-party liability claim is possible and ensure full compensation for both immediate and ongoing damages.
Premises Liability
Premises Liability occurs when unsafe or poorly maintained conditions cause someone to be injured on the premises of someone else’s property. Some possible causes for Premises Liability claims are: trip and fall or slip and fall due to a hazardous environment, a dog bite, or a swimming pool injury. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors to their property. When someone is hurt on their property due to their failure in this duty, a personal injury attorney can help. Once liability is established, the injured can recover compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Slip and Fall or Trip and Fall
- Inadequate security
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional provides substandard care that leads to injury or death. Examples include surgical errors, misdiagnoses, medication mistakes, and birth injuries. These cases are complex and often require expert testimony to prove that the standard of care was breached. A personal injury lawyer experienced in medical malpractice can navigate the legal system, gather the necessary evidence, and advocate for proper compensation for victims and their families.
Product Liability
Product liability refers to injuries caused by defective or unsafe products, ranging from household items to automobiles and medications. When manufacturers, designers, or retailers fail to ensure product safety, consumers may suffer harm. Dangerous pharmaceuticals, faulty car parts, and malfunctioning electronics are common causes for product liability cases. A personal injury attorney can help identify the responsible parties and hold them accountable through product liability claims.
Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries are more extreme injuries, with long-term or permanent impacts on a person’s life, such as brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or severe burns. Catastrophic injuries can incur the need for extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation and various life adjustments. Because of the high financial and emotional costs, victims need the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer to pursue maximum compensation for current and future medical care, loss of income, and reduced quality of life.
Wrongful Death
These tragic cases arise when someone dies due to another’s action, whether intentional or simply negligence, a wrongful death suit claim can arise. Common causes of wrongful death cases are medical malpractice, workplace accidents, defective products or equipment and car accidents. Families may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support. A personal injury lawyer can provide compassionate representation and help surviving family members navigate the legal process during a difficult time.
Other Common Personal Injury Cases
Assault and battery, sports-related injuries, toxic exposure (such as mold or asbestos), nursing home abuse, and aviation or boating accidents are all additional possible causes for personal injury claims. These often involve complex legal issues, such as multiple liable parties, insurance complications, or regulatory compliance. A personal injury lawyer will work to ensure that victims’ rights are protected and that they are compensated for their losses and suffering caused by their injury.
It is essential to take action quickly when you’ve been injured to get the care, healing and compensation you deserve for your loss and suffering. An experienced and knowledgeable personal injury lawyer will help you navigate, doing the necessary investigations, consultations with medical experts and negotiation to help make you whole again. McIlwain Law Firm is here to help, so that you can heal and recover while we focus on getting you what you deserve. Don’t hesitate. Contact us today for a free consultation.