Personal injury claims arise when somebody is injured due to the negligence or misconduct of another party. Injuries can occur in a variety of settings, such as motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, and more. According to recent statistics from around the United States, the most frequently occurring personal injuries involve motor vehicle crashes, falls, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and dog bites.
Motor Vehicle Crashes
Motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of personal injury and death in the United States. Data from Texas indicates the widespread impact of motor vehicle accidents. In 2023, there were 15,219 serious injury motor vehicle crashes in Texas, resulting in 18,752 people sustaining serious injuries. Impaired driving is a major contributor to motor vehicle crash injuries and fatalities. Statistics show that in 2023 in Texas, 1,090 people were killed in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes, accounting for 25.45% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities that year. With so many people injured or killed on US roads each year, motor vehicle accidents are clearly one of the top sources of personal injury claims.
Falls
Falls also frequently lead to personal injuries requiring medical treatment or legal claims. According to national statistics from 2021, falls resulted in over 6.9 million emergency room visits that year. Slip and fall accidents can take place in a variety of locations, such as someone’s home, a business premises, or a public sidewalk. Common injuries suffered due to falls include fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and hip injuries. As falls can happen to anyone at any age, they continue to be one of the most prevalent causes of personal injuries each year.
Medical Malpractice
When doctors, nurses, or other healthcare providers deviate from the proper standard of care, patients may experience injuries and adverse outcomes. Data from Texas shows that in 2022, there were 593 medical malpractice payments made in the state. This indicates that nearly 600 claims were filed and settled. The most common medical errors involve surgical mistakes, delayed diagnosis of conditions, medication errors, childbirth injuries, and inadequate informed consent. Medical malpractice injuries can range from minor illnesses to permanent disabilities or wrongful death. Given the severity of harm that can arise, medical negligence accounts for many personal injury lawsuits annually.
Workplace Accidents
Employees across all industries face potential hazards while working, which can lead to occupational injuries. Workplace accidents commonly include injuries from slip and falls, being struck by objects, repetitive motion injuries, burns, electrocution injuries, and exposure to toxic substances. Workers injured in an accident may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury lawsuit against a negligent third party. Workplace injuries can impede an employee’s ability to earn an income, so compensation is often vital.
Dog Bites
Dog attacks and bites frequently lead to personal injury claims, particularly for severe cases involving children. Most dog bites only cause minor puncture wounds, but others can result in permanent scarring, nerve damage, broken bones, infections, or disfigurement.
Children are especially vulnerable to dog bite injuries, often on the face and head region. Homeowner insurance and dog owner liability provide some avenues for obtaining compensation after a dog bite injury.
Although preventable through proper training and restraint of dogs, dog bites remain a common source of personal injury.
Being aware of the most common causes of personal injuries can potentially help people take sensible precautions. However, if you get injured in a serious accident, it is important to talk to a personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights and options for obtaining fair compensation.
