According to the National Security Council (NSC), 1 out of 5 people sought medical attention for a personal injury in 2022. Some of the most common types of Reno personal injuries include slip-and-fall accidents, car accidents, workplace accidents, and animal attacks. Let’s take a look at some of the common trends for these injuries and examine how a personal injury claim unfolds when another party is liable.
Motor Vehicle Accidents in Reno
From 2015 to 2019, Washoe County ranked #2 for fatal car crashes in Nevada, with a total of 193. Some common causes of car accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
- Reckless driving
- Running a light or a stop sign
In Nevada, there is a comparative liability system. If the injured party was speeding and was hit by another driver running a red light, the injured party might be 20% liable in that instance. Common Reno personal injuries include brain injuries, whiplash, broken bones, neck and spine injuries, and severe internal bruises/contusions.
When you are injured in a car accident, seek help immediately and complete a police and insurance report as soon as possible. A Reno personal injury lawyer can help you start on the path to getting a settlement.
Some tips to avoid getting hurt in a car accident include:
- Drive defensively, avoiding drivers who look like they are distracted
- Stay focused on the road at all times
- Always plan your trip before getting into the vehicle and know the routes you will be taking
- Make speed and following adjustments in case of inclement weather so that you can stop quickly
Slip-and-Fall Reno Personal Injuries
Over 6.1 million individuals were treated for slip-and-fall accidents in 2021. Slip-and-fall accidents are nearly always 100% preventable. In Nevada, there are premises liability laws that help determine liability in slip-and-fall accidents. A property owner has a duty of care to keep their property safe, warn guests of dangers, and act quickly to remedy those dangers.
A recent example of a case in Reno involves Fulkerson v Costco. The plaintiff slipped and fell on broken eggs while pushing a cart. In this case, the plaintiff noted that Costco staff had been warned of the hazard. Other types of slip-and-fall accidents include wet surfaces, uneven surfaces, obstructions, weather conditions, and poor maintenance.
In a slip-and-fall accident, you will likely be dealing with the defendant’s insurance company. A personal injury attorney can help negotiate, establish liability, and move the case forward. While a property owner has a duty of care to protect guests, there are steps you can take to make sure you are safe:
- Always be aware of your surroundings
- Wear comfortable, safe shoes that are appropriate for daily wear
- Pay attention to warning signs and staff in an area where there might be a spill or an obstacle
- Report hazards to staff or a property owner
Workplace Accidents
According to the National Safety Council, falls are among the most common accidents at work. Other common workplace injuries include dangerous equipment and environmental hazards. In Nevada, and most states, workers’ compensation laws require that workplace injuries are pursued through the workers’ compensation system. Workers can receive help with wage replacement (up to two-thirds of regular wages), medical treatment expenses, and death benefits. A personal injury can help a worker with a workers’ compensation claim or pursue a claim against a third party, like the manufacturer of equipment that caused an injury.
To protect yourself while at work:
- Make sure to always follow all safety regulations and training
- Report workplace issues to an employer that could cause an injury
- Be aware of your surroundings and heights to avoid slip-and-fall accidents
- Report the injury within seven days
Animal Attacks and Dog Bites
In Washoe County, Nevada, animal owners have strict liability for attacks and bites, regardless of whether or not the animal has a history of aggression. Most property owners have insurance that is a source of compensation in animal attacks. Some pet owners are forward-thinking and have insurance specifically for dog bites. If the victim was trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the animal, the owner might not be liable for compensation. To protect yourself from animal attacks:
- Avoid going onto a property where the owner has an animal
- Always ask a pet owner if it’s okay to interact with their pet
- Report dangerous animals that are not under the control of their owner
- Avoid animals that you are unfamiliar with
If you are injured by a dog bite in Reno, consult with Lerner and Rowe for your potential personal injury case.
Work with a Lerner and Rowe Reno Personal Injuries Lawyer
Here at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, our northern Nevada legal team is proud to give people the information they need to know more about Reno personal injuries. Our dedicated Reno personal injury lawyer has a proven record of success in securing settlements for those hurt in accidents in Reno. We will fight for you every step of the way.
Lerner and Rowe help Reno personal injury clients on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if we successfully recover compensation for you. If you were injured in an accident, call 775-644-4444 or connect with us via LiveChat and secure contact form to schedule a free consultation. Our personal injury lawyer in Reno can help you work through the complications of a personal injury case and help you recover fair compensation.