Injuries that result from an accident mean you have spent on medical bills, missed work, etc. A personal injury lawyer can help you prove the other party’s negligence and obtain compensation for your accident. More details in the following article.
What qualifies as bodily injury?
Personal injury lawsuits generally cover three key issues that can arise following an incident:
- Actual bodily harm
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Actual bodily harm is a fairly easy concept to understand. If a person is injured in a car accident by a reckless driver, they would expect to be compensated.
The compensation would cover existing medical bills, and it should also cover anticipated future medical expenses. This includes additional surgeries, home care, physical therapy, and anything else that might help the injured person try to return to some semblance of a normal existence.
The issue of pain and suffering is a little trickier. Lawyers advise their clients to consult mental health professionals to identify their pain and suffering. A person making a claim for compensation should also be able to document activities they previously engaged in that they can no longer participate in. Likewise, the way she currently feels on a daily basis.
In some countries, people who were not immediate directly injured parties can also seek compensation for pain and suffering. For example, if a person’s marital partner has been attacked and can no longer participate in a meaningful relationship, they may be able to seek damages for the loss of companionship.
Emotional distress is one of the most difficult injuries to pursue. Emotional distress can be considered to have been negligently or intentionally inflicted. This covers a wide range of injuries from defamation to threats of physical harm.
What does a personal injury lawyer do?
L’ personal injury lawyer performs tasks similar to those of most trial lawyers. He reviews applications and screens potential clients to assess the merits of their business. He gathers evidence, formulates legal theories and researches case law. His work involves drafting pleadings, motions and requests for discovery. He also questions and has witnesses testify.
All of these tasks contribute to trial preparation, but the work does not stop there. Personal injury lawyers defend their clients before and during trial. This may include advising them or dealing with obstacles in the legal system and those presented by their adversaries.
Personal injury lawyers often juggle a large caseload and work under tight deadlines with sometimes demanding clients. But many professionals find that the most rewarding aspect of practicing personal injury is helping victims and their families achieve justice.
Personal injury lawsuits can be extremely complex, which is why these attorneys often specialize in certain niche types of cases.
Why use the services of a lawyer?
- Professionalism and objectivity
A personal injury can cause you immense physical pain and emotional trauma. The pain and suffering you endure as a result of your injury can prevent you from being objective. Your personal feelings and opinions may affect your ability to stick to the facts of the case.
An accident lawyer is only interested in the facts. He will provide you with an informed point of view so that you can get the settlement you deserve. He will fight for you without focusing on things that aren’t important.
- Good negotiation skills
When it comes to negotiating how much compensation you should get, the other party will do their best. You will need to deal with their insurance representative or attorney. These professionals are trained to handle a difficult negotiation and you are not up to it.
Even if the other party is responsible for your injuries, their representatives may try to persuade you to accept a settlement that falls short. Damages you have suffered. A lawyer is there to assert your rights.
- A diversity of options
Pursuing a claim for compensation for your injuries can take time. There are processes to follow. Generally, there are two paths you can take. You can either file a claim for compensation or take legal action for personal injury.
Taking legal action should be the last resort, as it may take some time for the court to decide your case. However, it may be the only option for you if the at-fault party has refused to admit culpability for your injuries. A personal injury lawyer will advise you on the best approach to follow depending on your situation.