Personal injury involves harm to an individual. This area of the law allows an injured person to sue in a private action called a civil action. In the legal community, it is known as a tort action. A “tort” is a wrong against a person. Any accident or injury against a person can constitute a tort – whether it is from a car accident, the use of a dangerous product or the negligence of a professional.
Different degrees of fault exist and several elements are necessary to prove in court in order to be successful against the wrongdoer or negligent party in a tort action. Also, more than one person or party may be at fault, and responsibility may be apportioned among all of the wrongdoers. In some instances, the victim may even be partly at fault for the tragedy but that does not necessarily mean the person does not have a right to bring a lawsuit.
If successful, the person who is injured can recover money damages. These damages can be for a number of reasons: medical bills, lost income, future medical bills and care, and other economic damages that you incur. In addition, you may recover what is termed non-economic damages. Since they don’t come with a price tag, these are the damages that may be difficult to quantify, but nevertheless, are very real: physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, etc.
Keep in mind there is a deadline in filing cases known as a statute of limitations. These statutes vary and it takes an experienced personal injury lawyer to examine the facts and the law to determine the limitations period that applies in each case.
Petersen & Petersen regularly handles personal injury cases, including claims for personal injury arising out of wrongful death, automobile and trucking collisions, medical negligence, nursing home negligence, product liability and premises liability claims.
We look forward to putting our experience to work for you. Because they can be complex cases, it is important to select the right personal injury attorney in Ohio.