QUESTION: I was drunk in a bar and I fell, injuring myself. Do I have a case against the bar? They should have cut me off for having too much to drink but didn’t. ANSWER: Personal injury suits against alcohol providers are usually based on a negligence theory. The alcohol provider’s damages exposure is severely restricted by express statutory immunity from civil liability for any injury caused by the alcohol consumer. The immunity protects both “social host” providers and those in the business of selling alcoholic beverages [CC § 1714(b)].
Most bodily injury claims are settled before a lawsuit is filed, and initial settlement discussions will be with an insurance claims representative. But when injuries are costly enough and the torfeasor’s insurer becomes uncooperative, it is best to employ the services of a competent personal injury lawyer to represent the claimant.
QUESTION: I was in a car accident in August 2011 while I was in the military, and the other person is suing me for a lot of money that I don’t have. It will more than likely make me bankrupt and lose my house. I have insurance which should have covered $50,000 in medical expenses. What are my options? ANSWER: The great majority of personal injury claims are settled short of trial. However, some claimants in personal injury cases will file a lawsuit first before any talks about negotiation for.