2 Examples of Personal Injury Cases

Personal injury cases aren't just limited to car accidents or malpractice suits. Many different situations can still fall under personal injury law. But every injury is unique and must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Discover two types of personal injury cases that may qualify for compensation.



1. Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can be dangerous and often cause serious injuries such as fractures, concussions, and even spinal cord damage. These accidents can occur anywhere. But many people don't realize that such accidents can also qualify as personal injury cases.

If you or someone you know suffers injuries in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The property owner might be at fault for failing to maintain a safe environment.

For example, if there was a spill on the floor of a store and you slipped, the owner may be held responsible. If you can prove that the owner knew about the spill and did nothing to clean the mess up, you may have a strong case.

Similarly, if there was a hole in the ground that a property owner failed to mark properly, you could sue the property owner if you fell into the hole and suffered an injury.

To prove negligence, you'll have to show that the property owner knew about the dangerous situation and did not take steps to fix or warn people about the hazard. You also need to show that your injuries are a result of the hazardous condition.

However, you might not have an easy time, especially if the property owner denies any responsibility. You need to speak with a personal injury lawyer who can help you gather evidence and build a strong case. They will gather relevant evidence such as witness statements, photos of the scene, and medical records to help you prove that the property owner was negligent.

2. Dog Bites

Dog bites can be serious, especially if the dog is large or has a history of aggression. Serious dog bites can lead to scarring and emotional trauma –– not to mention the risk of serious diseases like rabies.

Dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries their dog causes. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you trespassed on someone's property when the dog bit you, you may not have a strong case against the dog owner. They could argue that you shouldn't have been on their property in the first place.

Similarly, if you provoked the dog or knew of its aggressiveness but still chose to pet the dog anyway, the owner might be in the clear. In such a case, the accident might be your fault since you knew of the risks but still put yourself in harm's way.

However, if you didn't do anything to provoke the dog, but it suddenly attacked you, you have grounds to sue the owner if they knew or should have known that their dog was dangerous.

Keep in mind that every case is different. A small dog that nips someone is less likely to cause severe injuries than a large dog that mauls the victim. So the severity of your injuries will play a role in the amount of compensation you get from a personal injury case.

A competent lawyer will review the circumstances of your case and help you decide if you have a strong enough case to sue the dog's owner. In some cases, you may be able to reach an out-of-court settlement with the owner so the case doesn't go to court.

Personal injury cases can be quite complex, so don't try to tackle one on your own. Speak to us at Smith Morgan LLP if you believe you deserve compensation for your injuries. We can help you understand your rights and decide if you have a case.