Many people have probably heard the term ‘personal injury’ on the radio and in television ads or have seen advertisements on billboards and buses, but what exactly is a personal injury?
Personal injury is an area of the law that deals with damage to a person caused either by someone else’s negligence or by a deliberate, intentional act. Personal injuries are often physical, such as a broken leg, whiplash, or a traumatic brain injury. However, the fallout can also be emotional (feelings of anger, guilt or hopelessness) and/or psychological (anxiety, difficulty concentrating or depression).
Personal injury damage can be distinguished from other damages such as property damage or financial loss, although these types of damages can also arise from the same event which caused the injury. In a personal injury lawsuit, a plaintiff (the person who was injured) seeks compensation for the harm caused by the defendant’s actions.
What is Negligence?
There are many different types of negligent acts or events which can give rise to a personal injury claim. Some examples of negligence include a car accident caused by a distracted driver, medical complications resulting from a surgeon’s carelessness, or a dog bite occurring when an owner allowed a vicious animal to roam free. In each of these examples, the defendant may not have intended to hurt anyone but ignored the risks their actions or inactions posed to others, and as a result, someone was injured.
Examples of deliberate acts that can lead to personal injury claims include assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers Helping Accident Victims Navigate the Legal System
If you have sustained a personal injury, you may have a claim against the person who was at fault for your injury, otherwise known as the “tortfeasor”. When commencing an action, however, it may be difficult to identify all of the proper defendants. This is because the person who directly harmed you may not have the financial resources to pay a large judgement. At Tierney Stauffer LLP, our experienced team of professionals will help you identify additional parties who may also be liable for your injury based on their relationship with the tortfeasor – such as a landlord or employer. We will take the time to explain all of the options available to you and help you fight for your rights.
If you have been injured in an accident and need assistance identifying your rights, contact Tierney Stauffer LLP
At Tierney Stauffer LLP, we have a team of lawyers exclusively dedicated to injury law. We give your case the time and attention needed to ensure that your rights are protected, and an optimal solution is achieved, with your long-term needs in mind. Call us at 1-888-799-8057 or contact us online to set up a free consultation with one of our experienced injury lawyers.