Getting injured is a distressing and frightening experience, especially if it results from someone else’s negligence. If you believe another person is at fault for your injuries, consulting a personal injury lawyer is crucial. But what is a personal injury lawyer? 

A lawyer can inform you of your rights and options, help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Having professional legal support can alleviate stress and provide peace of mind during a challenging time. In this blog we’ll go over what a personal injury lawyer is and why it’s important for you to have one in mind.

gavel on a book

 

What Is A Personal Injury?

 

Personal injuries encompass harm to a person’s body, emotions, or reputation, unlike injuries to property rights. Here are the grounds and causes of action for personal injury claims:

  • Negligence: This is the most common basis. It occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care, leading to injury. For example, a hunter carelessly shooting towards others.
  • Strict Liability: The defendant is held liable regardless of intent or negligence. For instance, a manufacturer is responsible for injuries caused by a defective product.
  • Intentional Wrongs: These involve deliberate acts such as battery, assault, false imprisonment, trespass, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Personal injury claims cover a wide range of situations, and understanding the basis of your claim can help in seeking appropriate legal action. Now that we know the basics of personal injuries, we have to answer this next question, “what is a personal injury lawyer”?

an injured man

 

What Is A Personal Injury Lawyer?

 

For multiple reasons, having an accomplished personal injury lawyer can be really beneficial.

  • Reviewing Claims: Lawyers can offer a realistic evaluation of the strength of your claim based on their experience reviewing instances similar to yours, which can assist you in determining whether to take legal action. Personal injury lawyers only get paid if you win because they frequently take cases on a contingency fee basis.
  • Objectivity: Because injuries can be emotionally taxing, it may be difficult to see the situation objectively. An attorney can assist you make decisions by providing an unbiased assessment of your case.
  • Managing Settlements: You may be inclined to accept a settlement offer right away if one is made. To make sure you receive the money you are due, a lawyer can advise you on whether to accept the current offer or to wait out for a better one. 
  • Getting Around Legal Processes: Legal procedures are frequently complicated, involving a lot of paperwork and medical jargon. Lawyers are qualified to manage these difficulties effectively. They also have a group of detectives and support personnel who will assist in building your case so you can concentrate on getting well.
  • Interacting with Insurance Companies and Competing Attorneys: A skilled lawyer has the ability to bargain both with insurance companies and other attorneys. You can be at a disadvantage if you don’t have legal representation. Attorneys can avoid settling for inadequate sums since they are aware of the strategies employed by insurance companies.
  • Comprehending Rules and Procedures: State-specific rules pertaining to personal injuries differ, and legal processes can be complicated. An experienced lawyer is familiar with the laws in your state and can use them to strengthen your case.

In summary, what is a personal injury lawyer? A personal injury lawyer brings the expertise, objectivity, and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of your case and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

injured man consulting with his lawyer

 

What Damages Can You Receive in a Personal Injury Claim?

 

If you win a personal injury case, you are entitled to be “made whole,” meaning you should be put back in the position you were in before the injury. The types of compensation you can receive include:

  • Medical Bills: Covers all related medical expenses.
  • Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Power: Compensation for income lost due to the injury and any impact on future earning capacity.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain.
  • Emotional Distress: Covers psychological impact from the injury.
  • Punitive Damages: Intended to punish the defendant, available in limited circumstances.

Some states have limits on punitive and non-economic damages, especially in certain types of cases.How can you  be sure that the compensation you’re receiving is the correct amount? This is where a personal injury lawyer comes in. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand any limits on damages and assist in proving your losses to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available under the law.

injured woman consulting with her lawyer

 

Kirakosian Law, Your Personal Injury Lawyer

 

If you’ve been injured in a California accident due to someone else’s fault, having a personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference in getting fair compensation. Kirakosian Law in Los Angeles, California, is an expert in personal injury cases and can assist you in maximizing your compensation.