Auto accidents, defective products, and unsafe conditions on someone else’s property can quickly cause injuries which might change your life forever. While some accidents are unavoidable, you may be able to file a personal injury claim if you can show that someone else’s negligence caused your injuries. Here are a few answers to some common questions about proving liability in a personal injury case.

What You Need to Know About Proving Liability for Your Injuries

What is a duty of care?

A duty of care is a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to safeguard the safety of other people. For instance, drivers are required to follow all local traffic laws, and property owners should quickly resolve conditions a reasonable person could have predicted may result in injuries, such as broken steps or icy sidewalks.

What is negligence?

Any act which ignores a duty of care can be considered negligence, especially when it puts the well-being of others at risk. Speeding, failing to properly test a product before bringing it to market, or refusing to repair a broken walkway are common examples of negligence that often result in injuries.

Can I file a claim even if I was partly at fault?

Many accident victims assume that they cannot collect compensation if their own actions contributed to their injuries. Fortunately, Ohio and many other states allow victims in these situations to file a personal injury claim, although the final amount of your award may be reduced in proportion to your contribution to your injuries.

Do I need a personal injury attorney?

Establishing liability can be extremely complex, especially when the insurance company attempts to shift blame onto the victims. Attorneys with personal injury claim experience have the legal understanding to protect your rights and the investigative resources to firmly establish liability for your injuries.

If you or a loved one has been hurt through no fault of your own, the attorneys at Agee Clymer Mitchell & Portman will aggressively pursue the damages you deserve. With offices in Columbus and Chillicothe, OH, they stand up for victims throughout the area, combining the resources of a large law firm with small-town service. Visit their website to find out how they can help with your personal injury claim, or schedule a consultation by calling (614) 221-3318 for their Columbus location or (740) 775-5551 for their Chillicothe office.