Negligent torts are some of the most common type of tort. Unlike intentional torts, negligent torts are not deliberate actions, but occur when an individual or an entity fails to act responsibly towards someone else and as a result, often leads to personal injury or monetary damages. A negligent tort may include anything from a car accident and a dog bite to a slip and fall case. Although negligent torts occur frequently, there’s no guarantee that you will receive compensation for your injury, monetary loss, or any suffering associated with the incident.
What to Do if You Suffered an Injury Due to Negligence
Whether you sustained broken bones when you were t-boned at an intersection, broke a hip on a ice covered sidewalk, or received a severe bite from a stray dog in the neighborhood, it’s important to prove that you are a victim of someone else’s negligence. Before you can even press charges or talk with a lawyer, who specializes in negligence lawyer, you need to make sure you have sufficient information for your case. Keep in mind that your ability to collect and recall information may depend on the severity of your injury, but if you are able to, you should do the following:
- Stay Calm: Someone else’s negligence, resulting in your injury, can leave you feeling rattled, angry, and quick to make threats. While these feelings are natural, be careful of what you say to the person or the entity who you perceive to be “at fault”. A harsh exchange of words can hurt your case rather than help it and may even get you into trouble, resulting in a countersuit.
- Avoid Saying “It’s My Fault”: Many people are quick to say, “It’s my fault” and often without thinking. The embarrassment of falling down after slipping on a poorly maintained icy sidewalk, whether you realize you are injured or not, may leave you uttering that it’s your fault or that you’re okay can come back to haunt you if you proceed with a claim.
- Document as Much as You Can: Regardless of what type of case you have, evidence is key. If you have been injured in a car accident where the other driver was at fault, it’s important to collect and document as much as you can. Smartphones are a helpful tool when you are injured due to a negligent tort. Not only can you make a quick phone call for help, but you should also take pictures of the scene of the accident, any damages to your property or to yourself, and make a note or voice recording. It’s also crucial, to your case, to record data as soon as possible as time can change how you remember details. Additionally, if collect the names of any witnesses, if possible.
- Visit a Lawyer: A lawyer, who specializes in negligent tort, can help you strengthen your case and get the compensation that you deserve. Based on the information that you give him or her, from accident documents to medical records, your lawyer will determine whether or not you are a victim of a negligent tort.
