Personal Injury FAQs

1. What is personal injury law?

Also known as tort law, personal injury law addresses injuries caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional actions. It is meant to protect individuals who have been harmed and provide compensation to make them “whole” again.

2. What are the most common types of personal injury cases?

Common types include car accidents, slip and falls, dog bites, workplace injuries, medical malpractice, and product liability claims.

In most cases, the injured party (the plaintiff) files a lawsuit against a person, business, or both (the defendant) for causing harm—whether through negligence or intentional actions—that resulted in some form of injury.

3. What injuries are typically involved in personal injury claims?

Injuries can range from minor to severe, including whiplash, broken bones, concussions, spinal cord injuries, burns, and emotional distress like anxiety or PTSD.

Symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, limited mobility, headaches, dizziness, or emotional changes. Some injuries—like brain trauma—may not show symptoms immediately.

4. How do I know if my injury qualifies for a legal claim?

If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence or unsafe actions, you may have a valid personal injury claim. A legal consultation can clarify your options. We also have a Personal Injury 101 Guide that walks you through the basics.

5. Can emotional or psychological injuries be part of a personal injury case?

Yes. Emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, and depression caused by an accident or injury can be factored into your claim as non-economic damages.

6. How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?

Personal injury lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win; the fee is a percentage of your settlement (typically between 30%-40%). Be sure to discuss all potential costs with your attorney during the free consultation to fully understand their fee structure.