There were 42,514 crash-related deaths in 2022, with California recording the highest number of fatal accidents at 4,428. Slip and fall accidents are common, too, and falls cause 40% of nursing home admissions in the US. And then there are workplace accidents, such as the 5.6 incidents per 100 retail store workers in 2021. If you have suffered an injury, you may have a viable personal injury case. However, not all cases are created equal. Certain factors make a personal injury claim more likely to succeed and result in maximum compensation.
According to an experienced personal injury lawyer in Oklahoma City, Chris Hammons, these are some signs that you have a solid personal injury case on your hands:
Clear Liability on Your Personal Injury Case
Liability refers to who is at fault for causing the accident or injury. The stronger the evidence that the other party was negligent, reckless, or intentionally harmful, the better your case. If liability is disputed, your personal injury attorney must prove it through investigation, evidence collection, and persuasive legal arguments. Clear, undisputed liability makes for a straightforward, strong case.
The Severity of Injuries Will Affect The Value Of Your Personal Injury Claim
The severity of your injuries is directly linked to the potential value of your personal injury claim. Minor injuries like scrapes often resolve quickly and warrant smaller settlements. Serious, long-term, or permanent injuries like brain damage, paralysis, or loss of limb have devastating effects that justify larger payouts – there are around 190 TBI deaths every day in the US. The defense will likely try to downplay your injuries, so having strong medical records and doctor testimony bolsters a serious personal injury claim.
Your Personal Injury Case Should Involve High Medical Bills & Lost Wages
Economic damages like medical expenses and lost income are one significant component of a personal injury settlement or award. Cases with medical bills in tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars and evidence of reduced earning capacity can result in a higher payout. Keep thorough records of all accident-related costs and financial losses.
Limited Contributory Negligence in Your Personal Injury Case
In some states, including Florida, Alaska, and California, you may recover less if you were partially at fault for the accident. Strong cases have minimal contributory or comparative negligence. Maintaining innocence through solid evidence and witness statements fights any accusation that you share the blame. An experienced personal attorney can combat dubious allegations of contributory negligence.
Reputable Witnesses Can Help Improve The Value of Your Personal Injury Case
Eyewitness testimony can make or break personal injury claims. Credible witnesses who corroborate your version of events are invaluable. Police officers, medical professionals, and bystanders can witness key details firsthand. Additionally, expert witnesses can analyze evidence and attest to the defendant’s fault, damages, or other liability aspects.
Having a Sympathetic Plaintiff Will Help The Verdict of Your Personal Injury Claim
Finally, jurors naturally feel more compassion for certain plaintiffs over others. Children, pregnant women, severely injured plaintiffs, or other “underdog” parties tend to gain sympathy. Likable people who make good impressions also have an advantage. While you can’t change who you are, working with a personal injury attorney to craft your story and appeal to juror emotions can make a case more compelling.
You likely have a solid personal injury claim if several of the above factors are present. An experienced personal injury lawyer can evaluate your situation and provide guidance for obtaining fair compensation. Don’t leave money on the table – take action to pursue maximum recovery today.
