Injury Laws

Among the types of personal injury, the most common are road traffic accidents, work injuries, assault claims, in-house accidents; product malfunction accidents. But there also are medical accidents (malpraxis cases are included here as well) and industrial disease cases such as asbestosis, or repetitive strain injury cases.

Financial compensation can be claimed if the injured party can prove negligence or intention from the other party.

A personal injury lawyer is necessary in most cases, in order to keep you from being taken advantage of. Usually, insurance companies will try to give you the lowest compensation possible. Another situation in which you should get an attorney is when the other party involved refuses to take responsibility for their actions.

Usually personal injury lawyers take cases on a contingent fee. That is, if they win, they are entitled to a percentage of the compensation, as a fee; if they lose, they don’t receive anything. You should keep in mind that fees are different from lawsuit costs, of some of which you may be responsible.

Hiring a personal injury lawyer is an important step and it requires a lot of consideration. First of all, it is a sound decision to find a lawyer that is experienced in cases similar to yours. Most lawyers and law firms specialize in specific injuries or cause of action (e.g. car accidents, burn injuries, malpraxis (medical malpractice) cases etc). You may consult several lawyers before you decide whom to hire. Make sure you feel comfortable around your lawyer, and that he shows interest in your case. A retainer agreement is usually necessary to protect your rights. Before signing anything, make sure you carefully read the whole document and understand everything in it.

If you end up in a dispute with your lawyer, you can file a complaint that will be investigating (each state has a “grievance” procedure) or apply for a dispute resolution service at the state bar of your residence.