When you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, navigating the legal landscape can feel overwhelming. Understanding what defines a personal injury and knowing when to seek legal help is crucial for protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Our personal injury attorneys at Silver & Silver are on your side.
What Is a Personal Injury?
A personal injury occurs when you suffer harm because of someone else’s actions or failure to act. This harm can be physical, emotional, or even financial. Personal injuries often result from accidents but can also arise from intentional acts or defective products.
Common examples include car accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and defective products. These situations typically involve another party who is legally responsible for your injury, whether it’s an individual, business, or organization.
Do You Have a Personal Injury Case?
Not every injury qualifies as a personal injury case. To have a valid claim, you must demonstrate that another party’s negligence or intentional actions directly caused your injury. Negligence refers to the failure to act with reasonable care, leading to harm.
For example, if a driver runs a red light and crashes into your car, their negligence could be grounds for a personal injury case. Similarly, if a store owner fails to fix a known hazard on their property and you slip and fall as a result, you may have a claim.
In Pennsylvania, it’s important to consider the state’s comparative negligence laws. These laws mean that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your fault. If you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover any damages.
When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
While some minor cases may be manageable without legal representation, hiring a personal injury attorney is highly recommended in several situations.
- Severe Injuries: If your injuries are serious or require extensive medical treatment, you should consult with an attorney. Severe injuries often lead to long-term consequences, including ongoing medical care, lost wages, and diminished quality of life. A personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive compensation for all these damages, not just the immediate costs.
- Disputed Liability: If the other party or their insurance company disputes liability, having an attorney on your side is crucial. Proving fault in a personal injury case can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. An attorney will gather evidence, consult with experts, and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. They may offer a quick settlement that’s far below what you deserve or attempt to deny your claim altogether. An experienced attorney can negotiate with the insurance company and protect your interests, ensuring you receive fair compensation.
- Complex Legal Processes: Navigating the legal system can be challenging, especially when dealing with paperwork, deadlines, and court procedures. A personal injury attorney will handle your case’s legal aspects, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
- Statute of Limitations: In Pennsylvania, you have a limited time to file a personal injury claim. You could lose your right to seek compensation if you miss this deadline. An attorney will ensure all paperwork is filed correctly and on time, safeguarding your claim.
Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney in Newtown Square
When searching for a personal injury attorney in Newtown Square, it’s important to find someone who understands Pennsylvania law and has experience handling cases similar to yours. The right attorney will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide clear guidance on the best course of action.
At Silver & Silver, we have been serving the Newtown Square community for over 40 years, helping individuals like you secure the compensation they deserve. We know how to navigate the complexities of personal injury law and are dedicated to fighting for your rights.
Secure Your Future
Don’t wait to seek the help you need. Contact Silver & Silver today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in securing the compensation you deserve. Your first consultation is free, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Disclosure:
This website is designed to provide only general information. The information presented on this website is not formal legal advice. You should not rely on any general information from any source for making legal decisions. Each legal matter is unique and requires specific attention from a qualified and experienced attorney. Unless a representation agreement has been signed with the Law Offices of Silver and Silver, we are not your legal representatives.
