Does the Severity of an Injury Mean Much in a Lawsuit?

Pain is no laughing matter. It can be challenging to manage and debilitate even the most energetic person.

An injury inflicted by someone else’s negligence can sideline you for weeks, months or even longer. Depending on the circumstances and events that caused the injury, the damage may range from minor to catastrophic. When dealing with a personal injury lawyer near me apopka fl, does the severity of the injury impact the chance of success in a lawsuit against the offending party?

Required Element in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

You may believe that any injury is eligible for a personal injury lawsuit, but this is not true. The foundation of a personal injury lawsuit is proving the defendant, or person responsible for the injury failed to adhere to a duty of care. The duty of care is a fundamental principle that a person must do everything possible not to hurt another. If the chain of events were random, and the defendant fell into an actual accidental situation, there is no negligence. However, if the defendant did or failed to do something that caused the incident, they may be guilty of negligence.

Damages Awarded May Vary

The range of injuries in a personal lawsuit dictates the chance of damages being awarded. Damages are monetary awards that are meant to help the plaintiff out with medical bills, lost time from work, and any other financial burdens resulting from the injury. If a person breaks an arm, they may be eligible for more money to cover the increased level of medical care required. When the injury is catastrophic, the likelihood of elevated damages increases. Punitive damages are another financial award that a court can choose to hand down. This is money that is above and beyond what the plaintiff lost. It is meant to punish the defendant in a way only a civil court can.

Consulting with a personal injury attorney is suggested. Doing this can set you up for a more favorable outcome.