Suffering an injury due to someone else’s negligence can be a physically and emotionally draining experience. In such situations, individuals often grapple with the decision of whether or not to seek legal representation. The question that frequently arises is how injured you have to be to contact a personal injury attorney. The answer lies in understanding the threshold for pursuing a personal injury claim and recognizing when legal assistance is warranted.
Understanding Personal Injury Claims
Personal injury law encompasses cases where an individual is harmed due to another party’s negligence, intentional actions, or strict liability. These cases typically involve accidents that could otherwise have been prevented. They include car collisions, slip and falls, medical malpractice, or defective product incidents.
Determining Liability
When contemplating whether to contact a personal injury attorney, one must consider the concept of liability. If your injury resulted from someone else’s negligent behavior, you may have a valid claim. Negligence is failure to exercise reasonable care and end up leading to harm. In legal terms, establishing negligence requires demonstrating the existence of a duty of care, a breach of that duty, causation, and damages.
The Severity of Injuries
Contrary to common belief, there is no specific threshold of injury severity that dictates when to contact a personal injury attorney. The key factor is whether the injury resulted from someone else’s negligence, regardless of the extent of the harm. Personal injury claims can range from minor injuries to severe, life-altering conditions. Injuries may include, but are not limited to;
- Fractures: Commonly known as broken bones, they can range from minor hairline fractures to severe, compound fractures requiring surgical intervention. The impact of fractures extends beyond immediate pain and discomfort, often leading to prolonged rehabilitation, potential long-term mobility issues, and substantial medical expenses.
- Soft tissue injuries: These injuries encompass damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They are often associated with slip and falls or car accidents. Whiplash, a common soft tissue injury caused by sudden acceleration or deceleration, can lead to persistent neck pain and headaches. Though soft tissue injuries may not be immediately visible, they can cause long-lasting pain and may require ongoing medical treatment.
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering consequences, impacting an individual’s mobility and overall quality of life. Injuries to the spinal cord may result from traumatic incidents such as car accidents or falls. Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): TBIs occur when external forces impact the head, causing damage to the brain. They can range from mild concussions to severe injuries with long-term cognitive impairments. Even seemingly minor head injuries can have significant consequences.
Minor Injuries and Claims
Even if your injuries seem minor, it is advisable to consult with our personal injury attorneys. Some injuries may initially appear insignificant but later develop into more serious conditions. Additionally, seemingly minor injuries can still lead to medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can assess the circumstances surrounding your injury and determine if pursuing a claim is in your best interest.
Medical Expenses and Damages
The financial aspect of personal injury claims often prompts individuals to seek legal guidance. Medical expenses, including hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and ongoing treatment, can accumulate rapidly. A personal injury claim may seek compensation for these expenses along with other damages. At Ruhmann Law Firm, we specialize in managing the complex aspects of personal injury cases and delivering desired results. We work to ensure that our clients receive fair compensation for their damages.
Statute of Limitations
Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial when considering legal action. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit, varying depending on the type of case and jurisdiction. In states like Texas and Arizona, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury. Delaying contact with a personal injury attorney could jeopardize your ability to pursue a claim. Consulting with legal professionals promptly allows for a thorough evaluation of your case and ensures compliance with the applicable statutes of limitations.
Get the Help You Need
The decision to contact a personal injury attorney is not solely dependent on the severity of your injuries. If you believe your injury resulted from another party’s negligence, seeking legal counsel is advisable regardless of the extent of the harm. Ruhmann Law Firm stands ready to assist individuals in getting through the complex aspects of personal injury claims. Reach out to us today for legal guidance. Remember, timely action is crucial.