After suffering a major accident, you may wonder whether you are entitled to financial compensation for your injuries. If you file a successful personal injury lawsuit, the court may award you money for your pain and suffering, medical expenses, and potential loss of income you endured as a result of the incident. Since filing a claim can be confusing, experienced personal injury lawyer Gary C. Mitchell PC, based in Ruidoso, NM, will explain what you need to know.

3 Key Factors for Successful Claims: A Personal Injury Lawyer Explains

1. Personal Injury

A personal injury constitutes any damage incurred to your physical body, mental state, or emotions. If you become ill after taking medication the doctor prescribed you by mistake, for instance, this may constitute a personal injury. Severe insomnia and anxiety after a traumatic car accident also qualify as personal injuries. Any damage to your property—like your vehicle or home—does not apply.

2. Negligence

In order to file a viable claim, you must prove that the negligence of another individual or entity caused your personal injuries. In the court of law, negligence occurs when an individual or organization fails to provide the reasonable level of care that would be expected under the same circumstances. For example, if a speeding driver rear-ended your vehicle, you can argue that the driver acted in a negligent manner. If poor road conditions caused the driver to swerve and hit your vehicle, proving negligence may be less straightforward.  

3. Recoverable Damages

Finally, you must prove you suffered harm that can be remedied via monetary damages. The court may award money to compensate for medical expenses, loss of wages, and reduction in earning capacity as a result of your injury. Physical, mental, and emotional suffering, disabilities, or an overall compromised quality of life may also constitute a financial award.

To determine whether you have a valid claim on your hands, talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help. With 40 years of experience serving personal injury cases, you can count on Gary C. Mitchell PC to provide you the support you need. For more information, visit the website. To schedule a complimentary consultation with the attorney, call today at (575) 257-3070.