Personal Injury FAQs

Life after an accident or other injury can be a confusing time. People usually have a lot of questions and sometimes do not know where to turn. These are some of the most frequently asked questions about general personal injury cases, with answers that can help you figure out what to do next. If you have more specific questions, a personal injury lawyer in your area can review your case and address your concerns personally.

What is personal injury?

Personal injury is defined as an injury that results from the negligence or intentional act of another person or company. The injury may be physical, psychological, or financial. Personal injury also includes damage to a person's reputation, in the case of slander or defamation. The most common types of personal injury cases are those involving motor vehicle collisions, defective products, or slip-and-fall accidents.

How do I know if I have a case?

If your injury was sustained as a result of someone else's failure to act responsibly, you may have a case. A personal injury attorney can examine the details of your case and give you a more specific assessment.

What must a plaintiff prove to prevail in court on a personal injury lawsuit?

A successful personal injury plaintiff must prove that the defendant had a responsibility and that failure to fulfill that responsibility was the direct cause of the injury sustained by the plaintiff.

How much compensation can I expect in my personal injury lawsuit?

The monetary value of any lawsuit depends on several variables. A personal injury lawyer in your area can review your case and tell you how much has been awarded in cases similar to yours, but no one can guarantee an exact figure. Damages commonly awarded in personal injury cases include loss of income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical expenses, and replacement or repair of damaged property.

Is there a certain timeframe in which a personal injury lawsuit must be filed?

Yes. The amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after sustaining an injury due to someone else's negligence varies from state to state, but there is always a deadline. If you have been injured and are unsure what to do next, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as is possible.

Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

LawyerShop.com is a directory of experienced, professional attorneys who serve local communities across the country. If you or a loved one has been the victim of negligence and you need legal advice, use LawyerShop.com to find a personal injury lawyer in your area.