If you have been involved in an accident, you have probably come across the terms “bodily injury” and “personal injury.” They may sound similar, but they have distinct meanings. Understanding how these terms differ can help you make better decisions if you are filing a claim for compensation or considering a lawsuit. Here is what you need to know.
What is Bodily Injury?
Bodily injury refers to physical harm to someone’s body.
It commonly deals with physical injuries caused by an accident, such as:
- Broken bones
- Cuts and bruises
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Internal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Insurance companies typically use the term “bodily injury” when discussing bodily injury liability coverage. This type of insurance covers the medical expenses, lost wages, and related costs of other people when the insured driver is at fault in a car accident. It does not cover the policyholder’s injuries, only the damages caused to others.
What is Personal Injury?
Personal injury is a broader legal term for any harm caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. It may include emotional and psychological harm or financial losses stemming from an injury.
Personal injury claims arise from a wide range of incidents, including:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Slip and falls
- Medical malpractice
- Dog bites
- Defective products
You may file a personal injury claim or lawsuit to seek compensation for more than just your medical bills.
These damages often include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Bodily injury is often part of a personal injury claim, but personal injury law addresses the full scope of your losses, not just your physical harm. A successful personal injury claim aims to compensate you for the total impact the accident has had on your life, including financial hardships and emotional suffering.
How Insurance Companies Handle These Claims Differently
Insurance companies often treat bodily injury and personal injury claims differently. Bodily injury claims usually focus on clear, physical harm like medical bills and lost wages, often resolved through the at-fault party’s liability coverage.
Personal injury claims, however, cover a broader range of losses, including emotional harm and diminished quality of life. Because these damages are more difficult to quantify, insurance companies may be more reluctant to settle or might offer lower settlements. Having a lawyer can help ensure your claim is valued fairly.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Bodily Injury or Personal Injury Claim?
You may not need a lawyer if your injuries are minor and the insurance company offers a fair settlement for your medical bills. However, if your injuries are severe, your recovery is prolonged, or you are experiencing financial strain due to lost income and ongoing care, it is in your best interest to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer.
A lawyer can help:
- Evaluate the true value of your case
- Handle negotiations with the insurance company
- Determine whether a lawsuit is necessary
- Protect your rights and ensure you pursue full compensation
An experienced lawyer can provide you with peace of mind during a stressful time and help you avoid mistakes that could cause problems. With legal guidance, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer fights to secure the compensation you deserve. They can also help you gather evidence, obtain expert opinions, and check that deadlines are met.
Contact a Lafayette, LA Personal Injury Lawyer from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Understanding the difference between bodily injury and personal injury can significantly impact your path to recovery. While bodily injury typically refers to physical harm covered by insurance, personal injury claims address the broader consequences of an accident, including emotional and financial losses.
For more information, please contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Lafayette, LA today. We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and its surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
318 Harrison Avenue Suite 107
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70802
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991