Personal Injury law can seem unnerving at first, especially if it is your first time going through the process. Following an accident that was not your fault, it is completely natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed about what comes next. That’s why we have created this simple guide to help you understand some of the key terms in personal injury law. Our goal is to make things clearer and help you feel more confident as you move forward in the legal process. Even a basic understanding of terminology can help the path feel a bit more approachable and less overwhelming.
Personal Injury
- Physical, mental, or emotional harm suffered by an individual because of another person’s failure to act responsively.
- Example: Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Dog Bite Injury, Car Accident, Public Entity, or Premise Liability.
Negligence
- Failure to take proper care or act with a level of caution that then results in the harm or damage to another person.
- Example: A driver is texting while driving and runs a red light, hitting another car. The driver has failed to follow traffic laws and pay attention.
Plaintiff
- You! The party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a complaint against another party. They are the one bringing the legal action and seeking a remedy for damages, and who we as Fielding Law represent.
Defendant
- Them! The person, company or organization being blamed or sued in a legal case, whichever party is believed to have acted wrongfully.
Claim
- When someone seeks legal justice for harm they’ve experienced, often because they are trying to find support, accountability, and sense of closure.
Liability
- Being legally responsible for causing an accident or harm. They are responsible for covering medical bills, lost wages, or other costs after an accident.
Compensation
- Money or support that someone receives after being hurt or harmed because of someone else’s actions or negligence. This helps cover things like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Medical Lien
- Money given to someone who has been hurt or suffered a loss because of another person’s actions.
How Fielding Law Can Guide You
At Fielding Law, we are committed to more than just guiding you through the legal terms. We are here to make sure you feel supported and understood throughout the entire process. If you or a loved one has any questions or concerns, please contact us at 833.88.SHARK. Your peace of mind matters to us and we want you to feel empowered in moving ahead.
Nota: La información proporcionada es para fines educativos y no constituye asesoramiento legal. Siempre consulte con un abogado calificado para inquietudes legales.
