"Personal injury" is a broad legal term used to describe all claims resulting in physical or psychological harm to plaintiffs; either through the action, inaction, or negligence of the accused. Some personal injury claims may also include property damage, but most concern bodily harm, illness, or death that are caused by another person, persons, or even a corporation such as a hospital or auto manufacturer.
Personal Injury Liability
In a
personal injury case, there are three basic ways a defendant may be found accountable for injuries or damages suffered by the plaintiff: negligence, intentional harm, and absolute liability. Negligence can account for such minor errors as the failure to address a broken taillight that led to collision, to the more severe transgression of a doctor's negligence to perform potentially life-saving treatments or tests. Intentional harm is slightly more clear-cut, as it refers to fully-conscious malicious actions, such as abuse or physical violence. In cases of absolute (or strict) liability, the defendant is responsible for damages regardless of his or her intent. An example of absolute liability may occur when a pet attacks a victim, regardless of that pet owners' intent to harm or not harm the victim.
Advice for Victims
If you or someone you love has suffered harm as a result of another party’s actions, inaction, or negligence, it is in your best interests to contact a personal injury lawyer. Personal injury laws are complex and often change, and after an injury to you or a loved one you may wish to reserve your energy for healing and planning your future. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you recover the full compensation to which you are entitled, enabling you to move on with your life.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in an
auto accident,
motorcycle accident, or
truck accident, it is important to speak with an attorney. Our team of
personal injury lawyers in Phoenix can assist you.