A lawyer gives advice to people and companies on matters of law. An accident lawyer gives advice to people who have suffered the loss of their health, well-being, and/or property as a result of the negligence or wrongdoing of another person, company, or government agency.
Working with Tort Law
Because of their working environment, accident lawyers are especially experienced in what is known as tort law. It covers economic and non-economic damages as well as civil wrongs to the reputation, rights, and property of an individual. In other words, this type of lawyer can handle just about anything that could bring harm to a person’s safety and life.
Tort law is derived from the common law system, developed by judges through court decisions. The system originated in England in the Middle Ages and was passed on to Canada, with the exception of Quebec, which uses a combination of civil and common law. It was also passed on to the United States, with the exception of Louisiana, which operates under a civil law system. Civil law relies on written codes in contrast to common law, which relies on previous court decisions to decide cases.
Tort cases do not involve prison or jail terms. Instead, they are settled by compensation payments made to the injured party. The entire focus of an accident attorney is to work toward repayment for the victim in a case that was caused by negligence or wrongdoing. As such, the accident attorney is often involved with health and car insurance issues, because these two areas are so often the cause of harm to an individual.
When Do You Need an Accident Lawyer?
You have been injured in a workplace accident for which the company assumes no responsibility. You feel the injury was caused by negligence on the part of the company owner. Your lawyer can assess the workplace situation and discuss your legal opportunities for compensation. Canadian law requires a company to be responsible for its personnel during working hours. An experienced accident attorney knows the law and knows how to apply it so that you can receive what you are due.
Many people, especially the elderly, have difficulty asking for their rights in cases of physical abuse by a family member. Fear or shame keeps them silent. Your lawyer can and will fight for your rights and any compensation due you for the abuse you have suffered.
What Will an Accident Attorney Do?
Lawyers experienced in this area are often called upon in the aftermath of auto accidents, which often involve bodily injury. Whether or not a physical injury is the result of an auto accident, the victim is often confused and too distracted to think about whether hiring a lawyer is advisable. Before an accident occurs is the best time to go over your best options.
Right after an accident in which you feel you have claimed is the right time to call an accident attorney. He or she can determine who actually bears responsibility for the damage, including whether you as the victim have any responsibility at all. Your lawyer will advise you of any possible settlement and discuss the charges. If you agree, your lawyer will file a claim on your behalf.
Your case may go to court. If so, your lawyer will be there to defend your rights. This is when and where your lawyer’s experience is most necessary to assure a proper settlement in your favor. Once the case is decided, your attorney can make sure that the payment you have been awarded is received on time and as stated.
Most of all, remember that the law can work for you and on your behalf. You should not suffer for the negligence of someone else. If you have been wronged, use the law to make it right.
A lawyer gives advice to people and companies on matters of law. An accident lawyer gives advice to people who have suffered the loss of their health, well-being, and/or property as a result of the negligence or wrongdoing of another person, company, or government agency.
