Understanding Personal Injury Law in Pennsylvania

Personal injury cases can be complicated and emotionally draining for the individuals involved. They often occur unexpectedly, and it’s not easy to navigate through the legal system without proper guidance. In Pennsylvania, personal injury law protects individuals who have been injured by the negligence of others. This law gives victims the right to pursue compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses. In this article, we’ll discuss the specifics of personal injury law in Pennsylvania so that you can more easily understand your rights and determine whether or not you have a case.

Types of Personal Injuries in Pennsylvania: Personal injuries in Pennsylvania can arise from various accidents such as car accidents, slip and fall accidents, dog bites, medical malpractice, or product liability. A personal injury lawsuit can be filed if the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Negligence means that the responsible party failed to act reasonably, leading to the injury of the victim. When filing a personal injury lawsuit, it’s crucial to have evidence that the defendant acted negligently and caused the injuries.

Statute of Limitations: Pennsylvania has a statute of limitations, which is the time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the incident. That means if you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to file a lawsuit.

Comparative Negligence: Pennsylvania follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means that the compensation you receive for your injuries will depend on your percentage of fault for the incident. If you’re found to be 20% at fault for the accident, for example, you’ll only receive 80% of the compensation you’re entitled to. The court will determine the percentage of fault based on evidence presented.

Compensation for Personal Injuries: If you qualify for compensation, you can receive damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other expenses related to your injury. Pennsylvania does not have a cap imposed on the amount of compensation a victim can receive for their injuries, as some states do.

Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer: Hiring a personal injury lawyer in Pennsylvania is highly recommended, as they can help you navigate through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. A lawyer can also ensure that you receive fair compensation and increase the chances of winning your case.