Philadelphia, like most jurisdictions, legally defines a personal injury case as a civil lawsuit filed by an individual (the plaintiff) who claims to have suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm due to the negligent or intentional actions of another party (the defendant). These cases are often related to car accidents, slip and falls, dog bites, nursing home abuse, or injuries sustained at work. As well, personal injury cases typically involve seeking compensation, known as damages, for the harm suffered. If you’re in a car accident, you may seek compensation for your medical bills and to repair your vehicle.
Philadelphia, and all of Pennsylvania, follows principles of negligence law when evaluating personal injury cases. To succeed in a personal injury lawsuit, the plaintiff typically needs to prove that:
#1 The defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff.
#2 The defendant breached that duty through negligence or intentional actions.
#3 The breach of duty caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
#4 The plaintiff suffered actual damages as a result of the injuries.
It’s important to note that the specifics of how personal injury cases are defined and litigated can vary depending on the facts of each case and the applicable laws at the time. For this reason, these cases can get complicated. After a personal injury, justice isn’t automatic. You don’t have to be alone in fighting for compensation, though. Bring on a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer to argue for your rights.
If you are considering pursuing a personal injury case in Philadelphia, it is advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide guidance. Connect with 1-8000-Injured, a medical and legal referral network, to find a qualified, experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyer. Throughout the process, your lawyer’s primary goal is to protect your interests, advocate for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses resulting from the incident or accident.
The lawyer will start by conducting an initial consultation with you. During this meeting, you will discuss the details of the incident or accident, your injuries, and any other relevant information. The lawyer will assess the strength of your case and provide an initial evaluation of your potential claims. He or she will help you calculate the full extent of your damages. This includes medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and any other losses related to the accident.
We encourage you to get started right away. The statute of limitations for a personal injury case in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is generally two years. This means that you typically have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit for personal injury in Philadelphia. However, it’s important to note that statutes of limitations can change, and there may be exceptions or variations depending on the specific circumstances of your case. When you consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in personal injury law in Philadelphia, they will be able to provide you with guidance tailored to your situation and the most current legal requirements.