The CDC estimates that 2.8 million people were hospitalized due to injuries in 2015. This snapshot, however, doesn’t offer a sense of the financial, mental, and physical issues these people endured. It also doesn’t cover those whose quality of life would be impacted for years or decades to come.
When faced with severe personal injury, especially when someone else is to blame, it’s no wonder many people want just compensation.
As a result, there’s a wide range of types of personal injury cases to keep up. While there are many legal specialties in the realm of personal injury, a few types of personal injuries are more common than others. Here are the main types of personal injury cases explained.
1. Auto Accidents
Car accidents are a common cause of injury in the US. However, when an injury occurs as a result of a car accident and the person in question isn’t at fault, they may be able to get compensation.
Of course, a favorable outcome will require a great deal of paperwork, including medical documentation from a doctor or health clinic, insurance information, and the police report about the accident. This is why it’s critical to know exactly what to do after a car accident.
2. Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice, an umbrella term that also covers medical negligence, is the third-leading cause of death in the US, so it’s no wonder related lawsuits are common. Medical malpractice happens when a doctor has broken a specific medical rule, failed to follow a process, or taken other negligent or inappropriate actions regarding patient health.
3. Slip and Fall
Whether they happen on public or private property, slip and fall accidents can be problematic, especially in older adults with existing health conditions.
When the accident is the result of an unsafe environment, like unsteady or slick ground, the injured person can fight for compensation.
4. Wrongful Death
This type of accident can go hand in hand with some of the other types of personal injury events on this list. For example, if someone slips and falls in an unmarked construction site and the resulting health complications lead to their death, their family may be able to get compensation. Of course, these heartbreaking cases can be difficult to deal with alone, so make sure to use these tips to find an attorney who specializes in what you need.
5. Product Liability
If a dangerous or defective product causes a serious injury, no matter where that injury occurs, the injured party can seek compensation. The danger may result from the product itself, or it may be the result of inaccurate or missing operation manuals. Infamous examples include silicone breast implants that rupture, damaged airbags or burning and exploding cell phone batteries.
Know the Main Types of Personal Injury Cases
Though there are many types of personal injury cases beyond these common areas, the specialties above cover a great deal of the cases in the US. From car accidents to product liability, we all want to receive compensation when we’re wronged—which is why it’s so important to speak with an expert that specializes in the practice area you need.
For more tips to help you stay healthy—or get back to help as needed—check out our other posts.
