The very nature of an accident implies something that takes us by surprise, in unexpected or unguarded moments. Personal injuries can occur when least expected, as we perform the routine activities we have done dozens of times before, or when attempting something new. They can occur at a wide variety of locations and in every conceivable circumstance. In any event, when you or a loved one incur a personal injury, you should seek the advice of Williamson, Clune and Stevens, personal injury lawyers in Ithaca, Auburn, Syracuse and Elmira, New York.
What Constitutes a Personal Injury Claim?
A personal injury, or tort, claim alleges that personal harm to the body, mind, and/or emotions has been inflicted on you by another person or entity. When someone’s negligence or intentional actions cause you an injury, you may seek financial compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit in the court system of The State of New York.
According to the American Bar Association, “Every tort claim, regardless of its basis, whether intentional, negligence, or strict liability, has two basic issues—liability and damages. Was the defendant liable for the damages you sustained, and, if so, what is the nature and extent of your damages? If you can prove liability and damages, our system of justice will award you compensation for your loss.”
Common Personal Injury Cases
Personal injuries are incurred by New York residents every day, and Williamson, Clune and Stevens, personal injury attorneys serving Syracuse, Auburn, Ithaca and Elmira, provide experienced and effective legal counsel and representation for these victims. Some of the personal injury cases we see frequently include:
Car Accidents
Car accidents are by far the most frequent cause of personal injuries. If the negligent or deliberately dangerous actions of another cause a car, truck, motorcycle, or pedestrian accident and you suffer personal injuries, you can file a personal injury claim to recover financial compensation for damages and losses.
Slip-and-Fall Accidents
People often slip and fall because of unsafe surfaces or walkways in public places. For example, a 
supermarket employee cleans up a spill, leaving a wet floor, but fails to leave any warning signage. Unaware of the wet surface, you lose your footing and sustain an injury. This could be negligence on the part of the employee, rendering the supermarket liable for your injuries. If so, you may be able to file a claim against the supermarket for damages.
Dog Bites
Pet owners must maintain safe control of their pets at all times. If a pet is not properly restrained and bites someone, this constitutes negligence. If you or your child were bitten or attacked by a dog or other animal and you believe negligence was involved, Williamson, Clune and Stevens, personal injury attorneys in Syracuse, can investigate and help you build a claim for damages.
Defective Products
When a manufacturer produces a product that is defective and it causes a personal injury while being used properly, there may be grounds for a defective product personal injury lawsuit. An example of this would be using a pressure cooker that explodes. In this event, you could recover financial compensation to pay for medical expenses, loss of wages and other losses from the manufacturer.
Wrongful Death
If the negligent actions of another person or entity caused the death of a loved one, you may be able to file a wrongful death personal injury claim for damages and loss of life. For example, if in the above pressure cooker example, your loved one suffered injuries that were fatal, you have grounds for a wrongful death claim.
Legal Help for Personal Injury Cases
Williamson, Clune and Stevens, personal injury lawyers in ithaca, Auburn, Syracuse and Elmira, can provide the legal advice and protection you need in the event of a personal injury. Each of the cases above, and many other examples, will all have unique aspects that require the knowledge and experience of a personal injury attorney to handle adequately. If you or a loved one have suffered a personal injury in Central New York, contact Williamson, Clune and Stevens at 888-863-3341 / 607-273-3339 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.