You are likely familiar with the term “personal injury lawsuit,” but what actually constitutes a personal injury claim? Hundreds of thousands of personal injury claims are filed around the country each year, and these involve more than just auto accidents.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents make up the bulk of personal injury claims, and they can involve pedestrians, cars, trucks, motorcycles, recreational and off-road vehicles, and bicycles. According to the National Safety Council the lifetime odds of death by motor vehicle crash are one in 102.
Premises and Public Liability
Slip and falls are a common category of liability claim. As people get older, the risk of serious injury or death from a fall increases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, millions of people, especially those 65 and over, fall each year. Stats on injuries are:
- One out of five falls results in a head injury or broken bone(s)
- 2.8 million older people are seen in country emergency rooms for fall-related injuries
- Over 300,000 people are hospitalized each year for hip fractures after suffering a fall
- Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Businesses, government agencies, and organizations are required to maintain a safe environment. Spills that aren’t wiped up can present a risk for a 20-year-old, but could result in a life-threatening injury for someone who is over 65. Other risks include faulty equipment, failure to adhere to building codes, or not labeling a dangerous area. If you suffer an injury and someone tries to make you sign a waiver, do not sign anything without talking to a South Carolina personal injury attorney first.
Product Liability
Dangerous and/or defective products cause injuries all around the country. Sellers and manufacturers are required to maintain strict levels of safety when producing products intended for the consumer market. Claims range from things like manufacturing defects to failing to properly label a safety warning.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice claims make up the last part of the most commonly filed personal injury claim types. It’s also one of the hardest claim types to prove. Medical malpractice claims require the use of experts who can testify as to the negligence in question. While medical malpractice claims are often hard to prove, they also tend to carry some of the highest payouts since the amount of harm done to the patient is usually significant.
When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney in South Carolina
If you have suffered injuries that fall under one of the categories listed here, retaining a South Carolina personal injury early on is vital to preserving your rights and ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Contact the skilled team of personal injury attorneys at the Elrod Pope Law Firm today for a consultation.
