What Are the Most Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in the U.S.?

TL;DR: The most common personal injury cases in the U.S. include car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, dog bites, workplace injuries, and wrongful death. Knowing how each works—and your rights—can protect your ability to get compensation. Always consult a qualified attorney after any injury.

1. Car Accidents

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of personal injury claims in the U.S. Injuries can range from minor whiplash to life-altering spinal damage. If another driver was at fault—even partially—you can recover compensation for your damages.

• Call 911 and seek medical help
• Take photos of both vehicles, the scene, and your injuries
• Get witness names and contact info
• Never admit fault at the scene

Learn how we fight back against insurers.

2. Slip and Fall Accidents

Falls due to unsafe property conditions can lead to broken bones, head trauma, and more. Property owners must keep their premises safe—or be held accountable.

Tip: Take photos of the hazard and report the fall to the property manager immediately.

Common hazards:

• Wet floors without warning signs
• Uneven sidewalks or broken stairs
• Poor lighting in walkways

3. Medical Malpractice

When doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to meet the standard of care, patients pay the price. These cases are complex—but you have rights.

Malpractice can include:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
• Surgical mistakes
• Birth injuries
• Anesthesia errors

Statute of Limitations: In most states, you have 1–3 years to file. In California, it’s typically 1 year from discovery.

4. Dog Bites

Some states (like California) hold dog owners strictly liable—meaning the owner is responsible no matter what. Bites can result in infection, scarring, or psychological trauma.

Strict liability = The dog’s history doesn’t matter. The owner is still on the hook.

5. Workplace Injuries

Most workplace injuries are covered under workers’ compensation. But if a third party caused the injury (e.g., a defective ladder), you may be able to file a personal injury claim too.

We help with:

• Construction site accidents
• Delivery driver injuries
• Unsafe equipment and machinery

Why it matters: Third-party claims can offer more compensation than workers’ comp alone.

6. Wrongful Death

When someone dies due to negligence—whether in a crash, surgical mistake, or unsafe premises—the surviving family may be entitled to compensation for funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional loss.

Learn more about wrongful death claims.

Steps After Any Injury

1. Seek medical care immediately—even if symptoms seem minor
2. Document the scene (photos, witnesses, incident reports)
3. Do not admit fault or sign anything without legal advice
4. Track all expenses and recovery progress
5. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible

Client Story: Slip and Fall Victory

San Diego: A retail worker slipped on a greasy floor at a grocery store. The company denied responsibility, claiming there were warning cones. We uncovered surveillance footage proving no cones were in place. Final settlement: $150,000.

Feeling Overwhelmed After an Injury?

That’s normal. Take a deep breath and write down everything you remember while it’s fresh. Then let our team take it from there. We know how to protect your rights—and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

No Win, No Fee. Contact us today for a free consultation.

— Neama Rahmani, Esq., President of West Coast Trial Lawyers

Neama Rahmani, a Harvard-educated attorney with over 20 years of experience and more than $1.7 billion recovered for victims, leads our team of national litigators. Meet our team, read real stories, or verify Neama’s credentials (California Bar No. 223819).

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult an attorney about your individual case.