If a personal injury caused by the negligence of someone else results in a severe injuries such as losing the ability to walk due to a car accident or brain damage due to a construction accident, it’s easy to see why these would be valid claims. However, what if your injury still causes you pain and affects your lifestyle but is not as debilitating. How do you know what would be considered severe enough to warrant a personal injury lawsuit?
First Things First
The first step in determining whether a case is viable is to establish that another person or business’s conduct was negligent. The law requires people and business to act reasonably to prevent others from being injured. Professionals like doctors and lawyers are required to act like a reasonable professional would in the same situation.
For example, if a grocery store employee mops up a spill and does not identify that the floor is wet by placing a sign in the area, that would not be what a reasonable grocery store would do. A reasonable storekeeper is expected to alert customers and fellow employees to potential hazards.
Severity of Injury
An injury does not need to be devastating to warrant legal action. If an injury like a broken bone causes you to be unable to work for a period or results in a loss of job opportunities, the damages incurred can be much greater than the medical bills alone. Additionally, an injury can cause mental stress that can also affect your ability to perform certain activities or live life the way you previously had. The overall damages that are incurred because of the injury are the main concern when determining the value of your personal injury case.
Reasons You May Not Want to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
A personal injury lawsuit requires an investment of time and money. Knowing how much time your case could take and how much you are likely to receive for your injury are vital to making the right decision. There are many aspects that need to be considered to determine the overall value and whether it is worth pursuing. A personal injury lawyer has a comprehensive understanding of the process and can give you an idea of how long the case may take and the amount you may be entitled to based on your injury. At Schiffman Law, our experienced team includes a state bar certified Personal Injury and Wrongful Death lawyer and other skilled professionals that can assist you in determining the right course of action for your situation. Contact our office at (602) 638-2864 to get started with your free consultation.