Getting hurt is never part of the plan. Whether you slipped on the wet floor at the supermarket or were involved in an accident at a construction site, a sudden injury can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds.
If you’re thinking about taking legal action, you’re not alone. Accidental injuries are a major problem in the United States; In 2023 alone, 62 million Americans sought medical care for preventable injuries.
If you believe a company is responsible for your pain and suffering, a lawsuit could be the right way to recover your costs. However, competing against a company can be intimidating. Experienced professionals like attorney Robert Bruner recommend learning about your legal options before taking action. This guide will help you learn the basics of suing a company for personal injury.
Proving negligence is key
The most important term in any personal injury case is “negligence.” You can’t simply sue a company because you were injured on their property. They have to prove they did something wrong. To win your case, you will generally need to prove that the company had a duty to keep you safe, that it failed in that duty, and that its failure directly resulted in your harm.
Understand the financial implications
One of the main reasons people sue is to recover the money they lose in recovery. Injuries are expensive, not just for the individual but for the entire economy. To give you an idea of the magnitude, all workers’ compensation claims between 2022 and 2023 totaled a staggering $47,316, a figure that includes lost productivity, medical costs and administrative costs.
When you file a lawsuit, you are asking for “damages.” It’s not just about your hospital bill today; It’s about the wages you lost because you couldn’t work, the cost of future physical therapy, and the emotional toll the injury has taken on your life.
Workplace injuries vs. customer injuries
It is important to differentiate between customer and employee. If you are injured while working, your case typically falls under workers’ compensation rather than a standard personal injury lawsuit. This is a crucial distinction because the risks are very real. Tragically, there were 5,283 fatal workplace accidents in 2023. With so much at stake, the workers’ compensation system is designed to handle these claims without the employer having to be “at fault.” However, if you were injured as a customer or bystander, you have the right to file a traditional lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries.
Document everything
If you get hurt at work, your phone is your best friend. Take photos of the scene, the hazard that caused your injury (such as a water spill or loose carpet), and your visible injuries. Gather names and contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened.
You should also carefully document your medical journey. Don’t miss doctor’s appointments, as insurance companies often fill gaps in treatment plans.
Do you need a personal injury lawyer?
While you can handle small claims yourself, personal injury law can quickly become complicated. If your injuries are serious or the company denies responsibility, having a professional on your side can make a big difference. Experienced attorneys understand the nuances of liability and can help you navigate the complex legal system.
receive compensation
Recovering from an injury is hard enough without the financial burden. By knowing your rights and taking the right steps, you can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
