When someone has been hurt in an incident and is seeking compensation, it’s common to hear the terms personal injury and bodily injury used interchangeably. However, they have different applications in the legal system. If you’ve suffered harm, understanding the distinction will help you determine your options for filing a claim and the type of damages you may be entitled to receive. Below is an overview of the distinguishing elements between these two types of cases.

What Is a Personal Injury? 

A personal injury refers to harm that’s been inflicted on a person either physically or due to a social offense. It can involve claims that arise from situations such as slip and falls, product defects, medical malpractice, false imprisonment, defamation of character, or malicious prosecution.

In these cases, the injured party must prove the defendant had a duty of care to keep them safe from harm and that that duty was breached. They must also prove that the defendant’s negligence was the direct cause of the injuries.

Depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident and severity of the injury, the plaintiff may collect restitution for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damages, and diminished quality of life. 

What Is a Bodily Injury? 

While personal injuries can stem from a variety of incidents, bodily injuries are typically specific to the physical harm a person sustains in a car accident as the result of another driver’s negligence.

This means compensation comes from the at-fault party’s insurance company. The driver’s liability coverage is meant to pay for healthcare costs, medical treatments and procedures, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and any future expenses and losses for long-term injuries. The plaintiff will need to show proof of injury and evidence of fault. 

Before pursuing compensation, reach out to Greene Law PC for help defining your injuries. They’ll know how to appropriately approach your claim and will devise a compelling argument that gives you the best chance at a favorable outcome. Backed by more than 25 years of experience, they’ve successfully handled countless personal injury cases for residents throughout Hartford County, CT. Call (860) 676-1336 to schedule a free consultation, or visit them online to learn more about their services.