Accidents can strike at any time and anywhere to anyone. Statistics show approximately 1.3 billion people die each year due to vehicle accidents, while around 30 million individuals get non-fatal injuries. Also, consider the 2.8 million workplace injuries that have occurred in 2019. These facts and figures say so much about how prevalent accidents are.
While you do not want to get yourself injured in an accident, it pays to make informed decisions should this happen. One legal matter to know is what personal injury case to file should a third party is at fault. Whether the accident happens in the workplace, commercial establishment, or public space, you must know who should be responsible and what legal actions to take.
That said, here are six types of personal injury cases you must know:
1. Vehicle Accidents
Vehicle accidents are rampant in different parts of the world. Many individuals, whether drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, get injured on the road. About half of the road accidents occur to vulnerable ones such as motorcyclists, cyclists, and even pedestrians. However, truck drivers who are working for businesses and driving at night are prone to accidents as well. If you have gotten in a truck accident, be sure to hire a truck accident attorney. Your lawyer will help you establish the party at fault and help you seek compensation from the responsible insurance.
2. Slip-and-fall Accidents
Slip-and-fall accidents are exactly what they sound like. Chances are that you accidentally slipped and fell in a public or commercial space due to the negligence of others. If it is not your fault, you can file a personal injury case against the property owner. Know that property owners have the legal responsibility to keep their premises free of hazards and ensure their utmost safety. Now, if your lawyer has established negligence on the property owner’s part, you will get compensated for your injury and financial loss.
3. Workplace Injuries
As mentioned above, workplace injuries do happen. While some have to do with the employees’ non-compliance at work, others are due to the employers’ fault. Causes of workplace-related accidents include an unsafe working environment, faulty tools and equipment, and a lack of training and supervision. It’s good that the Workers’ Compensation Act is set in place in most states in the U.S. Should you get in a workplace-related accident due to the employer’s negligence, you will be covered for your medical expenses, wages for your inability to work, and other key benefits. On the other hand, your employer will not be held legally liable.
4. Products Liability
More than product quality, safety must be the top priority of companies or businesses. Not only do hazardous items lead to consumer complaints, but they will also taint your business image and reputation. The worst things that can happen are legal ramifications and even business closure. Some examples of harmful products are expired medications, bacteria-laden staples, defective materials, and toxic chemicals. If you have been a victim of these products, you can file a personal injury case against the responsible business.
5. Medical Malpractice
The health sector must be cautious. Health professionals and medical facilities are meant to treat patients and save lives. As such, they must uphold the utmost medical standard of health care. On the contrary, some of them either deliberately or accidentally conduct medical malpractice. Some of this malpractice include improper diagnosis, incorrect treatments, surgical mistakes, and prescription errors. These lead to injuries, new illnesses, complications, and worsening health conditions. An attorney is necessary for this complicated personal injury case. If you have become a victim of medical malpractice, be sure to hire a lawyer to seek accountability and proper compensation.
6. Animal-related Accidents
The last on the list is the animal-related accident. When it comes to this, the most common type is a dog bite. In this case, the pet owner will be responsible for your injury. They will be paying for all the medical expenses involved. But as with any personal injury case, you must establish that the accident is due to the negligence of the pet owner. From there, you can file a claim from the owner’s insurance company and seek compensation.
At this point, you now know what types of personal injury cases are. Whether a road accident, workplace injury, or medical malpractice, be sure to understand the differences and know what case type to file. It’s best to hire a reliable lawyer who can help you seek proper compensation for your injury and financial loss. While accidents are inevitable, you must neglect to seek accountability.
