When you are injured in any type of accident, a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you recover financially. However, victims nearly always have questions about injury law. We have assembled these FAQs for you. Here is what to know about personal injury.
What is Personal Injury Law?
Personal injury is a specific area of tort law that deals with cases where one person suffers an injury because of another person's negligent or intentional act. In some cases, an entity such as a business may be the party responsible. Injuries include physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial losses.
What Types of Cases Fall Under Personal Injury Law?
If you suffered an injury because someone deliberately injured you or because they were negligent, you may have a personal injury case.
Common types of personal injury cases include:
- Roadway accidents
- Slip or trip and fall accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Injuries caused by a defective product
- Workplace accidents
- Dog bites
- Assault and battery
Even if you are uncertain that your injuries are serious, seeking a consultation with a personal injury lawyer is helpful. Most firms offer a free case evaluation.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured in an Accident?
You should do certain things following an accident to help ensure you are properly compensated for your injuries and losses. Here's what to know if you have suffered an injury in an accident:
- Medical attention — regardless of how minor you believe your injuries may be, you should seek immediate medical attention.
- Filing reports — file the appropriate accident reports with the police, facility owner, or other responsible party.
- Gathering evidence — ensure you get pictures when possible, get names and contact information for witnesses, and copies of accident reports.
- Getting help — Call a personal injury attorney to evaluate your case and your injuries.
If you were injured in Houston, Texas, there are time limits for filing an accident injury claim. The personal injury attorneys at Leo & Oginni Trial Lawyers may be able to help.
How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim?
To successfully pursue a personal injury claim, certain elements must be proven. These are:
- The responsible party owed you a duty of care
- The responsible party breached this duty it owed to you
- The breach caused you to suffer an injury
- You suffered damages stemming from the injury
Leo & Oginni Trial Lawyers will be happy to evaluate your case. Initial consultations are free, and you are under no obligation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?
Under the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Section 16.003, an injury victim has two years to file a personal injury claim. There are exceptions to this statute, which Leo & Oginni Trial Lawyers can explain.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
A personal injury victim may be entitled to claim three categories of damages: economic, non-economic, and punitive.
Economic damages include current and future medical bills, current and future lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other similar losses. Punitive damages are generally only awarded if the injury was caused by intentional harm or gross negligence and are considered punishments by the responsible party.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Personal Injury Case?
Some personal injury victims think they can handle their cases without legal help. There are many reasons why this is not a good idea. One of the primary reasons for not attempting to do this on your own is your recovery: The personal injury claim process is challenging and can be stressful. A personal injury lawyer can do some of the following:
- Gather and evaluate evidence
- Seek guidance from expert witnesses
- Negotiate with the insurance company
- Be prepared to go to court when necessary
Leo & Oginni Trial Lawyers have found that in most cases, a personal injury victim is more likely to get a fair settlement if they have an experienced lawyer advocating on their behalf.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Some injury victims often avoid hiring a lawyer because they are concerned about the out-of-pocket costs. Typically, most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay legal costs only after the firm has secured a settlement on your behalf.
Leo & Oginni Trial Lawyers is happy to explain our fees and costs associated with a personal injury claim so you can make an informed decision.
If you are in the Houston, Texas, area and have suffered an injury because of another person or entity's negligent behavior, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your legal rights and options.
