Washington, D.C. car accidents can happen anywhere, even when someone least expects it. One of the things that makes these accidents so upsetting and difficult for Washington, D.C. residents is the fact that they often seem to come out of nowhere, and yet their impacts can be felt for weeks, months, or even years. In some cases, the accidents can even be fatal, leaving families to mourn the loss of their loved one indefinitely.
For example, just last month a woman was tragically killed as she was walking. According to a news report, a driver was backing out of a driveway and hit the woman, who was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. The accident is still being investigated, and not much is known about it at this time.
This accident is just one example of the many accidents that happen every day in the blink of an eye but have serious and significant long-term effects. Often, Washington, D.C. accidents like this are just that—accidents. Usually, there is no ill intent, no intentional wrongdoing, and no one who wanted to cause harm to someone else. Even so, however, real harm occurs, and someone may still be legally at fault and liable for what occurred. Washington, D.C. law recognizes this, and has a system of law specifically for accident victims to recover against those who caused them harm, even without intent. Through a civil negligence lawsuit, individuals can file suit against someone whose negligence caused a Washington, D.C. accident, seeking to recover monetary damages. These damages can include lost wages, pain and suffering, medical bills, and funeral and burial expenses.
How Do You Prove a Negligence Claim?
In these lawsuits, a plaintiff does not need to prove intent to harm, necessarily, but instead must prove negligence. There are four main elements of negligence. First, that the defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff. In the case above, for example, the defendant had a duty of care to act reasonably safely and take precautions before pulling out of the driveway. Second, that the defendant breached this duty, in this case by not checking before pulling out. Third, that their breach was the actual cause of the accident. And finally, that actual losses were suffered as a result, such as death or bodily injury.
While these four things may sound straightforward and simple to prove, those who have gone through the process before know that it is deceptively difficult. In addition, failure to prove even just one of those four things could prevent the claim’s success. Because of this, many individuals filing civil negligence lawsuits choose to work with a personal injury attorney who is knowledgeable in this area and who has worked on these cases before, to maximize their chances of success.
Have You Recently Been Injured in a Washington, D.C. Car Accident?
If you or a loved one was recently injured in an accident, you may be searching for a Washington, D.C. car accident attorney to advise you on your legal rights and options. Search no further and call Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC, today. Our advocates are in your corner every step of the way and will work tirelessly to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call today at 800-654-1949 to learn more.