Personal injury can alter your life completely, and it may be impossible to get the quality of life you previously experienced. Also, the death of a loved one is traumatizing and life-altering. The pain is worse when it’s caused by the actions of someone else’s irresponsible behavior. Here are some things to remember in the event this happens to you or a loved one.
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death
Personal injury is grievous bodily harm brought about by the negligence of parties responsible, wrongful act, or avoidable situations which lead to wrongful death. There are quite a few instances in which you can file a lawsuit. Drunk driving is one of the most common cases known to cause such injury. Reckless driving, not as commonly known to many, is something that causes drivers to lose control of their vehicles and unfortunately can change the lives of everyone involved. Texting while driving is something that most everyone has likely done. Despite our driving skills it is never a good idea to distract yourself from operating a 2-ton vehicle. Texting while driving is, unfortunately, a common cause of accidents and death on the roads today.
Failure to remove surgical tools from the body after an operation is something that is portrayed on tv series more often than not. And even though protocols and required counts are enforced in hospitals today, it is still something that occurs. Not only does this cause slow or decreased healing, but will also require another procedure to be performed to retrieve the tools.
Is a Lawsuit the Correct Route of Action
In the courts, evidence is the key factor to these types of cases. It is best to find an attorney that is suited for the job. Take your time and interview multiple attorneys before deciding on the one you want. Look for someone or a group such as Burnett and Williams who will look out for you.
Determine the Kind of Damages to Pursue
There are several damages you can pursue on personal injury and wrongful death. However, they largely depend on the circumstances of the case. In general, damages are awarded to cover medical expenses while in hospital, damages due to pain and suffering before and after receiving initial treatment up to the point of recovery. Not only expenses, but any financial loss experienced such as loss of wages. Also, in some cases, the monetary equivalent of support offered by family members due to the bereavement can be recovered.
It’s vital to start as soon as you can after the unfortunate event to seek compensation. Although it may be a difficult time, especially after the death of a loved one, documentation is necessary from the onset to place you in a better position to get adequate and fair compensation.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
