Bodily injury refers to any physical harm, damage, or impairment to a person’s body caused by an external force. This can include cuts, bruises, broken bones, and injuries to muscles or internal organs. It typically results from accidents or intentional acts such as assaults. In legal contexts, bodily injury is often distinguished from emotional or psychological harm, although both can occur simultaneously in incidents like car accidents or slip and fall cases.
If you have suffered bodily injury from an accident or in a way that wasn’t your fault, then you may deserve compensation. The Tampa personal injury lawyers at The Law Place have a wealth of experience between them in dealing with insurance companies to win their clients the compensation that they deserve.
So phone us today on 941-444-4444 to book a free consultation. Bodily injury insurance covers expenses for the other party involved in an accident, including specific kinds of bodily harm like fractures, bruises, and nerve damage.
What Is Serious Bodily Injury?
Bodily injury refers to the physical damage caused to a person’s body. It can also be known as physical injury. Examples of bodily injuries could include:
- Cuts, abrasions, bruises, burns, and lacerations.
- Disfigurement.
- Impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty.
- Internal bleeding.
- Broken bones and fractures.
- Physical pain.
- Illness.
Overall, any injury to the body, no matter how temporary or minute, is a bodily injury. It can also include sicknesses and diseases.
Serious bodily injury is the same as bodily injury, but just much more severe. Typically, a serious bodily injury involves substantial risk of death, obvious disfigurement, and/or loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ. It is much more than minor or superficial injuries.
Whether the injuries you sustained were this serious or not, The Law Place is fully capable of representing your case. We promise to fight for the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve to be able to cover medical expenses, property damages, lost wages, and more.
What Is the Average Bodily Injury Coverage?
It is a legal requirement in Florida that all drivers must carry specific types of car insurance coverage. According to Florida Statute 627.7407, the requirements for Florida drivers can be quite different from that in many states. Florida’s car insurance minimums are considerably low in comparison, and so it’s recommended that drivers obtain coverage above the state’s limits.
This is because the minimum coverage limits are so low that it most likely will not be able to cover most costs adequately enough, which can leave you having to cover the remainder of the expenses yourself. Additionally, Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning injured victims are required to first file for any claims through their own insurance company, regardless of who caused the accident.
One such requirement is bodily injury liability coverage. Bodily injury liability coverage sustained by other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians if you are liable for having caused a car accident. It does not cover the injuries or damages that you may sustain in the accident. While this is a mandatory coverage in most states, it is not required in Florida, as instead, drivers can rely on Personal Injury Protection (PIP) to cover any injuries that may be sustained to the other party if they cause an accident. However, it is recommended.
It is especially recommended because if you have endured any bodily injury in a crash that wasn’t your fault, then you may be entitled to sue the at-fault driver. Without bodily injury liability coverage, then the at-fault driver may have to repay any damages themselves. However, this should not hold you back if you have experienced any bodily injury.
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What Compensation Can I Claim for Bodily Injury?
You could sue an at-fault driver who doesn’t have bodily injury liability insurance for the following:
- Medical Expenses – If any injuries are sustained, then you could sue for financial compensation to cover medical bills.
- Property Damage – If your vehicle sustained any property damage, then you could have the costs of this covered.
- Lost Wages – If you lost any wages because of the injuries, then you could be paid for your losses.
- Pain and Suffering – If you are enduring any mental or emotional suffering, then you could claim for compensation because of that.
A personal injury claim is a process of seeking compensation for physical and emotional damages resulting from accidents. Filing a personal injury lawsuit against an offending driver under certain conditions of severe injury is part of the multi-step process of a personal injury claim.
The average bodily injury claim is around $15,000, although these tend to be relatively infrequent.
If you have been involved in an accident that left you with any bodily injuries that were not your fault, then you deserve compensation for the above and more reasons. Our law firm will fight any insurance company to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience
How Does a Bodily Injury Claim Work?
Bodily injury claims are considered “Third Party Claims,” meaning that you would be filing a claim against the insurance company of the at-fault driver. In order to make sure as much of your expenses are paid for as possible, you should be prepared to provide:
- Records of what happened.
- Photos of any injuries you sustained and the scene.
- Records of medical examinations and any bills from doctors.
- Receipts of all related expenses and proof of lost wages.
After making a claim:
- You should hear back within a reasonably set time frame.
- Be prepared to openly discuss the incident multiple times. You may have to clarify what happened to assess the injuries you sustained and the damages you deserve.
- There may be a time limit on your right to collect compensation for your claim.
- Sign the release form only if you are ready, and your attorney has encouraged you to do so. An attorney at The Law Place will be able to review the release form for you and ensure that you have been offered the best deal possible.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers.
How The Law Place Can Help You with a Bodily Injury Claim
Dealing with bodily injuries after an accident can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. The Law Place is here to help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist you with your bodily injury claim:
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation – When you contact The Law Place, our attorneys will provide a free consultation to evaluate your case. We will review the details of your accident, assess the extent of your injuries, and determine the viability of your claim. This initial evaluation helps us understand the best course of action for your situation.
- Gathering Evidence – To build a strong case, we will gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. This thorough investigation is crucial for establishing liability and demonstrating the full impact of your injuries.
- Proving Liability – Establishing liability is essential for a successful bodily injury claim. Our attorneys will work to prove that the negligent party’s actions directly caused your injuries. We will use evidence and expert testimony to build a compelling case showing how the accident occurred and who is responsible.
- Calculating Damages – Understanding the full extent of your damages is vital for ensuring fair compensation. We will calculate all your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future medical care needs. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your injury and its impact on your life are considered.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies – Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our experienced attorneys will handle all negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf. We will fight for a fair settlement that covers all your damages and reflects the true value of your claim.
- Litigation Support – If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and will represent you effectively, presenting a strong case to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Contingency Fee Basis – At The Law Place, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any legal fees unless we win your case. Our payment is contingent upon securing a successful outcome, allowing you to pursue your claim without worrying about upfront costs.
- Personalized Attention and Support – We understand that each case is unique and requires personalized attention. Our attorneys will work closely with you, providing compassionate support and keeping you informed throughout the legal process. We are dedicated to alleviating the stress of a bodily injury claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
What is Considered Bodily Injury? FAQ
What is bodily injury in a legal context?
Bodily injury refers to physical harm inflicted on an individual’s body, encompassing a wide range of injuries from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma or even death.
How does bodily injury relate to personal injury cases?
Bodily injury is a central aspect of personal injury cases, which involve seeking compensation for injuries sustained due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions.
What types of injuries are included in bodily injury claims?
Bodily injury claims may involve physical injuries such as broken bones, burns, whiplash, or traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, emotional trauma and mental anguish resulting from the incident may also be considered.
Can bodily injury claims cover non-physical damages?
Yes, in addition to physical injuries, bodily injury claims may encompass non-physical damages such as emotional distress, mental anguish, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
What expenses can be compensated in a bodily injury claim?
In a bodily injury claim, various expenses can be compensated, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, funeral expenses in cases of wrongful death, related out-of-pocket expenses, and lost income due to the inability to work.
How are non-economic damages addressed in bodily injury cases?
Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of consortium, are subjective and more challenging to quantify but can be addressed in bodily injury cases.
What evidence is needed to prove bodily injury in a personal injury case?
Evidence needed to prove bodily injury may include medical records, diagnostic tests, expert testimony, and documentation of the physical and emotional impact of the injury on the individual’s life.
Can bodily injury claims cover internal injuries or damage?
Yes, bodily injury claims can cover internal injuries or damage, such as internal bleeding, organ damage, or neurological injuries, which may not be immediately visible but can have significant long-term consequences.
How does personal injury protection (PIP) insurance claims relate to bodily injury?
Personal injury protection (PIP) insurance is a type of coverage that provides compensation for medical expenses and lost income regardless of who was at fault in the accident. It can help cover immediate medical costs before pursuing a bodily injury claim.
Why is it essential that accident victims consult a personal injury attorney for bodily injury claims?
Consulting a personal injury attorney is crucial for navigating the complexities of bodily injury claims, ensuring that your rights are protected, and maximizing your compensation. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court, providing the legal guidance and advocacy needed for a successful outcome.
Where Can I Find Out More?
The Law Place is committed to educating people about personal injury. You can explore our personal injury blog posts for valuable information. However, the best way to learn more is to reach out for a free consultation. We will offer advice based on your specific scenario, such as whether we believe you have a valid claim and what damages you could pursue.
How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
At The Law Place, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not have to pay any legal fees upfront. Our payment depends on winning your case; if we do not win, you do not owe us any legal fees. This ensures that you can pursue your claim without worrying about immediate financial burdens. This approach allows you to access high-quality legal representation regardless of your financial situation.
Contact The Law Place Today for a Free Consultation
If you have been involved in an accident that has left you with a bodily injury, then you should contact The Law Place, based in Florida, on 941-444-4444.
Whether the at-fault driver has bodily injury liability coverage, property damage liability coverage, or neither, we will ensure that you get the compensation and justice that you deserve.
