Virginia Beach Child Injury Lawyer
Witnessing your child suffer from severe injuries is agonizing for parents, and when accidents happen because of someone else’s thoughtless actions, the pain and anger can feel overwhelming. Child injury civil cases result from the negligence or intentional actions of someone else, causing accidents leading to minors sustaining bodily harm.
While paperwork and preparing lawsuits may be the last thing on your mind, taking action to hold the responsible party accountable with help from a seasoned personal injury attorney is essential. Call today to schedule a consultation with a Virginia Beach child injury lawyer to review your options.
Primary Causes of Child Injury Lawsuits
Some examples of the primary causes of civil lawsuits involving minors include the following:
- Car crashes
- Playground accident injuries resulting from reasonably unsafe conditions
- Medical malpractice of a physician or other medical provider
- Hazardous toys, furniture, clothing, and other defective products
- Negligent supervision on the school bus, in school, or at daycare centers
- Accidental drowning and other swimming pool accident injuries
- Severe burns from open fire, hot objects, scalding liquid, or chemicals
- Dog bites and attacks
Children do not have the same experience and insight as adults and may fail to recognize the potential for danger. Therefore, parents and guardians must protect them to prevent avoidable accidents that can lead to severe and life-altering injuries. When negligence leads to a child injury, a parent could file a claim for compensation with the help of a Virginia Beach attorney.
Recoverable Damages After a Child Injury
The settlement amount in child injury cases depends on the claim’s specifics, such as the severity of injuries and actions leading to the accident. Examples of potential recoverable damages include:
- Lost future earning capacity when accidents cause life-long disabilities, affecting their ability to hold gainful employment
- Healthcare costs, including past emergency room, hospital stays, doctor office visits, medical procedures and surgeries, and ongoing treatment
- Special education expenses
- 24-hour care, including in the home or a long-term living facility
- Physical, emotional, and psychological pain and suffering the child suffers because of the accident and injuries
- Loss of the enjoyment of life for those unable to participate in activities they were fond of before the cause of action
A civil court judge must approve the settlement amount before finalizing it, and structured settlements, trusts, or a paid fiduciary may be required to oversee the funds until the minor turns 18. During the consultation, an experienced Virginia Beach child injury attorney could answer specific questions about the process and estimated award for damages.
Time Limits for Pursuing Legal Action
The personal injury case statute of limitations regulates the maximum time frame to pursue legal action and obtain settlements from the liable individual or business. Under the Code of Virginia § 8.01-243, most cases’ deadline is two years. However, when the plaintiff is a minor, the time does not start until their 18th birthday, and they must initiate legal action before they turn 20.
However, specific case details could reduce or extend the time. A seasoned child injury lawyer in Virginia Beach could answer questions about the rules and regulations and handle the legal work, filings, and communications to ensure compliance.
Meet With a Practiced Child Injury Attorney in Virginia Beach Today
Lack of life experience and curiosity make children vulnerable to getting in accidents that leave them with painful and debilitating injuries. You have the right to pursue legal action and obtain a settlement from the responsible party if their recklessness causes them harm.
A compassionate Virginia Beach child injury lawyer could help you navigate the complex and often challenging process and advocate for a fair outcome. Call today to schedule an appointment and learn more. The associates at The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, P.L.L.C., have practiced law for over 50 years and are ready to protect your family’s future.
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