Personal injury law gives those injured by someone else’s carelessness the right to collect compensation for their losses. While many injury claims are related to auto accidents and falls, almost any situation in which someone is harmed by another party’s negligence may provide grounds for a claim. Understanding what qualifies as a personal injury will help ensure you’re fairly compensated for your losses.

What Qualifies as a Personal Injury?

The Liable Party Had a Duty of Care

Everyone has a duty of care to protect the safety of other people, especially property owners and professionals in some fields. For example, drivers have a responsibility to follow the rules of the road, and property owners should maintain safe conditions for their visitors. Doctors and other healthcare professionals are held to an even higher standard that requires them to actively provide a standard level of care for every patient.

The Accident Was Caused by Negligence

To hold liable parties responsible for your injuries, personal injury law requires you to show that they were caused by someone else failing to fulfill their duty of care. Auto accidents caused by drivers who were speeding or intoxicated is a common example, along with injuries caused by unsafe products and medical malpractice. Personal injury law also gives victims of battery or other crimes the opportunity to collect compensation for their losses.

The Injuries Resulted in Real Damages

Actual financial losses are the foundation of any personal injury claim, so only injuries that required medical treatment are grounds for a suit. Accident victims may also seek compensation for any wages they lost, as well as the pain and trauma they’ve endured.

After an accident, the attorneys at Privette Law Office in Willow Springs are prepared to fight for your rights. With an extensive background in personal injury law and a commitment to treating each client like family, they’ve provided aggressive representation to victims throughout Southern Missouri. Visit their website to learn how they can help after an accident or call (417) 469-3535 to arrange your initial consultation today.