In the United States, people cannot go around “accidentally” hurting other people and get away with it. After all, “intentionally” hurting someone else is a criminal offense and can land the perpetrator in jail or prison. While criminal cases and civil lawsuits (personal injury claims) differ, on some occasions the at-fault party can face criminal charges and a civil lawsuit.
For example, suppose someone kills another driver in a drunk driving accident. Not only would the drunk driver face driving under the influence (DUI) charges, but the decedent’s surviving family members could sue the drunk driver in a wrongful death claim. Sometimes, the lines are blurred – it often comes down to whether the at-fault party crossed over into criminal behavior when they injured the innocent party.
In light of the above, let’s take a look at the top personal injury accidents:
- Car Accidents: The vast majority of car accidents are caused by negligence. These days, speeding, drunk driving, and texting while driving are all major contributors to car accidents.
- Slip and Fall Accidents: These can occur in the private or commercial setting. Torn carpeting, slippery surfaces, and obstructions can all lead to slip and fall accidents.
- Dog Bites and Attacks: When a dangerous dog bites a visitor, or someone who is lawfully present in a specific place, the dog’s owner can be held liable for any injuries his or her dog caused.
- Medical Malpractice: Medical malpractice is not only common, it’s grossly underreported. A doctor or healthcare provider can be liable for malpractice when he or she delivers substandard care and it directly causes harm to a patient.
- Dangerous & Defective Products: When a dangerous or defective product, such as a toy, tire, automobile, tool, or other product injures a consumer who used it properly, the manufacturer or distributor of the dangerous product may be held liable for any damages suffered by the consumer.
- Nursing Home Abuse: When an elderly resident is abused at the hands of a caregiver at a nursing home, the senior is entitled to file a personal injury claim. Common types of nursing home abuse, include: physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, and financial exploitation. Nursing homes can also be held liable for resident-on-resident abuse that occurs in their facilities.
Need a Columbia personal injury attorney to file a claim on your behalf? Contact the Law Offices of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC for a free consultation!