Personal injury cases can be overwhelming and confusing, especially for those who are not familiar with legal jargon. If you have been involved in an accident or suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to understand the terminology commonly used in personal injury cases. This knowledge can help you better navigate the legal system and communicate effectively with your lawyer. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most important personal injury terms you need to know.
1. Negligence
Negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care that a prudent person would under similar circumstances. It’s a legal term that refers to the careless or reckless actions of an individual that cause harm or injury to someone else.
2. Damages
Damages refer to the monetary compensation awarded to the injured party as a result of the harm or injury caused by the negligent party. And damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses that were incurred due to the accident or injury. Seeking the guidance of experienced truck accident lawyers can help you assess your damages and pursue fair compensation for your losses.
3. Liability
Liability refers to the legal responsibility of an individual or entity for their actions or inactions that caused harm or injury to another person. In a personal injury case, the negligent party may be held liable for the damages suffered by the injured party.
4. Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is the time limit within which a lawsuit must be filed. In personal injury cases, the statute of limitations varies depending on the state and the type of injury involved. It’s important to file your lawsuit within the statute of limitations, or you may lose your right to pursue compensation.
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5. Comparative Fault
Comparative fault is a legal principle that assigns a percentage of fault to each party involved in an accident or injury. If the injured party is found to have contributed to their own injuries, their compensation may be reduced accordingly.
6. Preponderance of Evidence
Preponderance of evidence is the burden of proof in a personal injury case. It means that the injured party must prove that it’s more likely than not that the negligent party caused their injuries.
7. Settlement
A settlement is an agreement reached between the injured party and the negligent party, usually through their lawyers, to resolve the case without going to trial. The injured party agrees to accept a certain amount of compensation in exchange for dropping the lawsuit.
8. Discovery
Discovery is the process by which both parties exchange information about the case before trial. This can include documents, witness statements, and other evidence that may be used to support or refute the claims made by each side.
9. Deposition
A deposition is a sworn testimony given by a witness under oath before trial. Depositions can be used to gather information about the case and assess the credibility of witnesses.
10. Contingency Fee
A contingency fee is a fee that is paid to the lawyer only if the case is successful. The lawyer’s fee is usually a percentage of the compensation awarded to the injured party.
In conclusion, personal injury cases can be complex, but understanding the terminology used in these cases can help you navigate the legal system more effectively. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to consult with experienced Queens personal injury lawyers who can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your losses.
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