In life, accidents happen. Sometimes these accidents are not your fault. When you suffer an injury that is caused by the negligence or recklessness of someone else, you may be entitled to compensation for your financial or emotional loss.
Unfortunately, many people who have been damaged by the actions of another person do not know how they can receive what is owed to them. What’s worse, those who are at fault often refuse to take responsibility. In those situations, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit to be made whole. Check out these common types of personal injury cases so you have a better sense as to how you could proceed with your potential claim.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
By far, the most common personal injury cases result from car accidents. Generally, car accidents occur due to the negligence of one or more drivers. When a driver negligently causes damage to you, they could be held financially responsible. States require drivers to carry insurance to help pay for injuries or damages caused by the accident. Still, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit to compel the insurance company or the at-fault driver, or both, to pay you what you are owed.
Premises Liability Cases
Those who own property are legally required to maintain it and to keep it safe and free of hazardous conditions. Those who enter the property and suffer injuries due to unsafe conditions may be entitled to compensation. It is important to note that not all injuries which you suffer on someone’s property will qualify you for compensation.
Examples of when you could hold someone responsible for harm that came to you on their property include:
- Slipping and falling on slippery or icy steps
- Injuries suffered from falling objects
- Tripping on broken or uneven pavement
- Elevator or escalator accidents
- Inadequate security that leads to assault
Medical Malpractice
Medical treatment that doesn’t meet the minimum standard of care and which results in injuries to you (the patient) could be construed as medical malpractice, which is a basis for you to sue and obtain financial compensation from the medical provider. These types of cases, while not uncommon, often require expert reports and independent evaluations.
Not all negative reactions from medical treatment will result in a medical malpractice claim. As with most types of personal injury lawsuits, laws vary depending on the state in which treatment was rendered. For example, Florida’s malpractice laws set forth a specific set of requirements on how you would go about bringing a lawsuit, such as first obtaining a written opinion from an expert who believes that your case has merit.
Dog Bites
Generally, owners are responsible for the injuries caused by their pets. Some states have strict liability laws that hold owners liable for dog bites even if the dog has never shown aggression or a history of biting. Other states require that the owner be aware of a dog’s propensity to bite before holding them liable for any injuries suffered as a result of dog bites.
Personal Injury Lawyers to the Rescue
The Watson Firm, PLLC is devoted to protecting the rights of our clients who have been unreasonably harmed by others. Our personal injury attorneys can effectively advise you as to your options. We are prepared to aggressively pursue all remedies against those responsible for your injuries in order to get you the compensation you deserve.
Call ((850) 607-2929 or contact us online to consult with an experienced Pensacola personal injury lawyer regarding your case.