November 18, 2024

What Are the 5 Most Common Types of Personal Injury Cases?

Personal injury law provides a pathway for you to seek compensation when another person’s negligence leads to your injuries. This process typically begins with filing a personal injury claim, aiming to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses arising from the incident.

However, even with a strong personal injury claim, insurance companies may offer insufficient settlements or, in some cases, deny claims entirely. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can make a substantial difference, increasing your chances of securing fair compensation without the need for prolonged legal battles.

Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP is a personal injury law firm dedicated to handling a wide range of cases. In this blog, we cover the most common types of personal injury cases and key factors to consider when seeking the compensation you deserve.

The Five Most Common Personal Injury Claims

These common types of personal injury cases are the most frequent scenarios in the legal landscape:

1. Motor Vehicle Accidents

Auto accidents are the most common personal injury cases in Wisconsin and nationwide, spanning car, motorcycle, and truck collisions. With so many vehicles on the road, car accidents can happen at any time, often due to distracted driving, drunk driving, or reckless behavior.

If you’ve been involved in an auto accident, it’s essential to consult a personal injury lawyer who understands Wisconsin’s fault laws and comparative negligence rules. Without experienced guidance, you could be unfairly assigned a portion of the blame, reducing your potential compensation. Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP is here to protect your rights and advocate for the full recovery you deserve.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate this process and secure fair compensation for your injuries.

2. Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can be distressing and often lead to severe injuries, such as neck, spine, and brain trauma. Proving that a property owner neglected their duty of care, resulting in your injury, requires a thorough understanding of premises liability law—something that’s challenging to do alone.

At Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP, we’re committed to building strong cases for slip and fall victims. Our experienced attorneys work diligently to hold negligent property owners accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help protect your rights and secure fair compensation.

Man With A Bandaged Head And Arm In Pain

3. Medical Malpractice Cases

At Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP, we know that medical malpractice claims are some of the most complex cases in the legal field, requiring a detailed understanding of medical standards and the ability to hold healthcare professionals accountable when they fail to meet these standards. When a medical malpractice claim cannot reach a fair settlement, it becomes a formal lawsuit—often involving issues like surgical errors, birth injuries, incorrect medications, or improper treatments.

Our team at GTW has extensive experience navigating these intricate cases, advocating for clients who’ve been harmed due to medical negligence. We’re here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

  1. Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog bites and animal attacks can lead to severe injuries and emotional trauma, often requiring extensive medical treatment and impacting quality of life. In many cases, dog owners are held responsible under strict liability laws, meaning they may be automatically liable if their animal harms someone, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior. However, establishing liability can still be complex, especially if the owner disputes responsibility or if the local laws involve exceptions.

At Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP, we understand the challenges victims of dog bites and animal attacks face, from medical expenses and lost wages to emotional distress and lasting scars. Our experienced attorneys have an in-depth knowledge of Wisconsin’s specific liability laws surrounding animal attacks, and we work diligently to investigate every detail of the case. By gathering critical evidence, such as witness statements and medical records, and evaluating the full impact of the injury, we build a strong claim that fully reflects the harm you’ve suffered.

Choosing GTW means having a dedicated legal team that prioritizes your well-being and fights for maximum compensation. Our attorneys are here to provide you with compassionate support and assertive representation to help you recover financially and emotionally. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you hold negligent pet owners accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve.

5. Product Liability

Defective or dangerous products can result in painful physical and psychological injuries. In product liability cases, proof must be shown that a product is defective in design, manufactured with defects, or that manufacturers failed to warn consumers about the dangers.

Sometimes in these types of cases, the victim suffers an injury that they can’t survive. These often lead to wrongful death cases where families can seek justice for the loss of their loved one.

Factors to Consider in Every Personal Injury Case

Every personal injury case has its own story and unique circumstances. Beyond the more common types, personal injury cases can also involve situations like nursing home abuse, boating accidents, and more. If you’ve been harmed by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation—not only for medical bills and lost income but also for the broader impact your injuries have had on your life.

To give yourself the best shot at recovering these costs, consider these key factors:

Statute of Limitations

Most personal injury cases in Wisconsin are subject to the three-year time limit when filing a lawsuit. This law requires you to file your case within three years of the date you are injured, or three years from the date your injuries were discovered.

Evidence and Documentation

As the plaintiff, it’s essential to demonstrate that the other party was negligent and is therefore responsible for your injuries. Collect and preserve all evidence that can support your claim, showing how their actions—or lack of action—led to your harm. Thorough documentation is key to building a strong case for liability.

Seeking Medical Care and Legal Representation Promptly

If you’ve been injured, seeking immediate medical attention is essential—even if you initially feel fine. Some injuries, especially internal or soft tissue injuries, may not show symptoms right away, so prompt care ensures any issues are identified early.

After addressing your medical needs, it’s wise to consult with an attorney who can assess your case and guide you through your options. Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP offers free initial consultations, allowing you to explore the strength of your case and the best path forward for your unique situation.

When someone else’s negligence causes your injuries, you shouldn’t be left to shoulder the financial burden alone. By pursuing a personal injury claim, you may be able to recover your financial losses, helping you focus on your health and recovery while we handle the legal process.

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