The aftermath from an accident can be confusing, but a personal injury lawyer can help. A truck crash, slip-and-fall, or a pedestrian injury all have the same result—lots of legal language. That’s why the team at Spivak & Sakellariou, licensed in Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, created this guide to common legal terms you may encounter throughout your case.
These are the most common terms you will come across as you explore your legal options after an accident. Understanding these personal injury law terms can help you feel more confident when working with a personal injury attorney.
Common Personal Injury Law Definitions
1. Personal Injury
A legal term for an injury to the body, mind, or emotions. This is different from damage that happens to property.
2. Liability
Legal responsibility for what someone did, or did not, do. One of the key jobs of a personal injury attorney is to prove the liability of the other people involved in the accident.
3. Negligence
This happens when someone fails to exercise reasonable care. The result can be injury or damage. Generally, a personal injury lawyer files a claim based on negligence.
4. Damages
Compensation awarded to an injured person for losses including:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
5. Claim
A request for compensation filed by the injured party. This is typically made through an insurance company or court action.
6. Settlement
The personal injury attorney can help you reach an agreement to resolve a legal dispute without going to trial. Settlements usually involve some form of payment to the injured party.
7. Statute of Limitations
The legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. This period varies by state and by the type of case. That’s why it is important to work with a personal injury attorney in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia. They will have experience with these local deadlines.
8. Comparative Fault / Comparative Negligence
A legal principle that reduces the injured party’s compensation. This happens if they are found partially at fault for the accident.
Trucking Accident Terms
9. Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)
A vehicle used for business purposes that meets specific weight or usage standards. CMVs are typically semi-trucks and delivery trucks.
10. FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
The federal agency that oversees the commercial trucking industry. The FMCSA also sets safety regulations and driver standards.
11. Hours of Service (HOS)
Federal rules limit how long a truck driver can be behind the wheel. Limiting HOS is intended to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
12. Black Box (Event Data Recorder)
A device installed in commercial trucks that captures driving data such as speed, braking, and hours driven. It can be used as evidence in accident investigations.
13. Vicarious Liability
A legal concept where an employer (such as a trucking company) can be held responsible for the actions of its employees.
Insurance Terms
14. Liability Insurance
Insurance coverage that pays for damages or injuries the policyholder causes to others. Required for both personal and commercial drivers.
15. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM)
Insurance that helps cover your losses if the at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t enough to pay for your damages.
16. Bodily Injury Coverage
Part of an auto insurance policy that covers injuries to others when the policyholder is at fault in an accident.
Specialized Legal Professionals
17. CDL Attorney / CDL Lawyer
A CDL attorney is someone who holds their own Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Their industry-specific knowledge makes them especially effective at handling trucking accident claims, CDL violations, and FMCSA compliance issues.
18. Truck Accident Lawyer
A lawyer who specializes in commercial vehicle accidents. This includes those involving tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and freight carriers. Because laws vary, it is important to find a truck accident lawyer near you. Spivak & Sakellariou have experienced CDL attorneys for Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia.
19. Personal Injury Lawyer
An attorney who helps people injured due to someone else’s negligence. They will help as you seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, and other damages.
20. Wrongful Death Attorney
A personal injury lawyer who represents the family or estate of someone who died due to negligence. They can help recover damages for funeral costs, lost future earnings, and emotional losses.
A Personal Injury Lawyer That Makes Sense
If you’re dealing with a truck accident, pedestrian injury, or other type of personal injury, you need a lawyer who can explain your legal rights in clear terms. That’s where the experienced attorneys at Spivak & Sakellariou can help. Based in Cincinnati and serving clients throughout Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, our team knows the law and what you need.
Schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer and let us help you take the first step toward justice.
