While some minor incidents can be resolved without legal assistance, many situations necessitate the expertise of one of the 167,319 personal injury lawyers in the US to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation. Here are eight such scenarios.
Serious or Long-Term Injuries
If an accident results in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment, lead to long-term health problems, or cause permanent disability, consulting a personal injury lawyer is crucial. These types of injuries can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, severe burns, or conditions requiring ongoing care. Alton C. Todd and Seth Park, personal injury attorneys in Galveston, recommend looking for an experienced lawyer who can help accurately calculate the full extent of your damages to ensure you receive adequate compensation.
Medical Malpractice
When a healthcare professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or hospital, provides substandard care that results in harm or injury to a patient, it may constitute medical malpractice. There were 3,046 claims for medical malpractice wrongful death in 2022. These cases are often complex, requiring a deep understanding of both medical and legal principles.
Product Liability (Defective Products)
If you’ve been injured due to a defective or dangerous product, you may have a product liability claim. This could involve a wide range of products, from faulty car parts and malfunctioning appliances to unsafe medications or medical devices. Proving that a product was defectively designed, manufactured, or lacked adequate warnings often requires thorough investigation and expert testimony.
Motor Vehicle Accidents with Complicating Factors
While not all car accidents require a lawyer, certain situations make legal representation highly advisable. These include accidents involving multiple vehicles, disputed fault, uninsured or underinsured motorists, or accidents with commercial trucks. Many of the 184,058 truck accidents reported in 2023 were complex due to federal trucking regulations and the potential for multiple liable parties. If liability is unclear or the other party’s insurance company is uncooperative, a lawyer can protect your interests.
Premises Liability (Slip and Fall Accidents)
Property owners have a legal duty to maintain a reasonably safe environment for visitors. If you are injured on someone else’s property due to hazardous conditions – such as wet floors, icy sidewalks, poor lighting, or inadequate security – you might have a premises liability case, commonly known as a slip and fall accident.
Workplace Accidents
There were 5,283 fatal workplace accidents in 2023. Injuries sustained at work can sometimes lead to personal injury claims beyond workers’ compensation. While workers’ compensation typically covers medical bills and a portion of lost wages regardless of fault, there might be situations where a third party (not your employer) is responsible for your injuries.
Insurance Company Disputes or Bad Faith Practices
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when you’re trying to recover from an injury. If an insurance company denies your legitimate claim, significantly delays processing it, or offers an unfairly low settlement, it’s time to consult a personal injury lawyer.
Wrongful Death
In the event of a tragic death, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims seek compensation for losses such as medical and funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the loss of companionship. Wrongful death cases are emotionally charged and legally complex, making the guidance of a compassionate and experienced personal injury lawyer invaluable.
Engaging a personal injury lawyer in these situations can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.