When a person is injured in an accident, someone is often legally responsible. Personal injury is a branch of law that is designed to protect persons harmed by the careless or intentional actions of others. The personal injury legal system sets out the parameters for compensating victims who have been injured by such careless actions.

Personal injury law encompasses a broad range of claims, including wrongful death, motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall, defective products, work injuries, animal bites, and numerous others.

To establish a personal injury claim the injured person must be able to demonstrate that another party has the legal responsibility for the injuries. To establish responsibility for the personal injuries, two factors must be proven: 1) liability (culpability), and 2) damages (losses).

• Liability: Liability in personal injury law is largely divided into three categories: intentional wrongs, negligence, and strict liability. These areas are discussed in detail below.
• Damages: Depending on the circumstances of the case, an injured person can seek damages for physical injury, lost earnings, impairment of future earnings, lifestyle changes, loss of support to loved ones, property damage, and past, present and future medical care and expenses.

If you have been injured you should recognize that a personal injury action can be a complicated endeavor. It would be wise to consult an experienced and reputable personal injury attorney as soon as possible after any accident that causes injury to you or a loved one.