As a personal injury plaintiff in West Virginia, it’s wise to prepare for potential defenses other parties may use to escape liability. Learning the most common defenses in personal injury cases can help you craft a response strategy that will limit your own liability and maximize results. Working with an experienced West Virginia accident attorney is the best way to prepare for possible defenses. In the meantime, learn about a few frequent strategies the defendant may use to combat your claim.

Comparative Negligence

West Virginia is a modified comparative negligence state. This means a plaintiff can usually still receive compensation for injuries despite the courts finding him or her comparatively at fault. In some states, even if a plaintiff was 99% at fault for an accident, he or she could still recover 1% compensation. The courts will simply reduce the plaintiff’s compensation award by an amount equivalent to the percentage of fault. In West Virginia, however, a plaintiff may only recover damages if he or she is 49% or less at fault for the accident.

The percentage of a plaintiff’s fault will depend on the arguments against the plaintiff. A common defense strategy is to allege that the plaintiff contributed to his or her own injuries through negligence. For instance, a defendant might argue that a slip-and-fall victim contributed to the incident by not paying attention. This argument could lead to the courts finding a plaintiff comparatively at fault and reducing recovery. If a defendant successfully convinces the courts that the plaintiff was 50% or more at fault, the plaintiff will automatically lose the right to recovery.

In a comparative negligence state, it’s very important to hire a lawyer to argue your own percentage of fault down. Each percentage the courts assign to you means dollars lost from your potential recovery. If a total compensation award is $100,000, for example, but a defense brings your comparative fault to 20%, you would only receive $80,000 of the award ($100,000 minus 20% of $100,000, or $20,000). Combat this common defense strategy with strong proof of the defendant’s negligence.

Assumption of Risk

Sometimes plaintiffs suffer injuries during risky activities, such as skydiving or going to a live sports game. In these cases, it’s possible for the injured party to lose his or her right to compensation because of the assumption of risk defense. Certain situations come with an assumption – either implied or explicit – that the participant could be at risk of personal injury. When a person agrees to participate in such an activity regardless of the risks, he or she may give up some legal rights.

Check your event ticket, contracts, or forms you signed prior to engaging in the activity to see if you signed away your rights to file a personal injury lawsuit. Keep in mind, however, that no company can escape liability for incidents that occur because of its negligence or that of its employees. Neglect to fulfill standards of care can expose a company or defendant to liability regardless of assumption or risk or other clauses.

Broken Rules

It’s critical to obey all rules and requirements when filing your West Virginia personal injury claim. Otherwise, the defendant could use your lack of rule-following as a liability defense. The most common broken rule that could get in the way of your recovery is the statute of limitations. You have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim in West Virginia. The defense could argue you filed your lawsuit too late, failed to state a claim, or don’t have enough evidence. Again, hiring a qualified lawyer can help you successfully fight these common defenses.

 

Attorney Timothy Manchin established the Manchin Injury Law Group in 2011 after his law partner of more than 25 years became a West Virginia circuit court judge. His focus is on helping individual clients and entire families victimized by negligent acts.

  • Taylor Downs was easy to talk to (I do not speak the legal language well!) and was very upfront and honest about the entire process of my case. He kept me updated as the case progressed, and answered my relentless questions. The end result was a favorable settlement that I’m not sure could have been any better with anyone else. In short, go see Taylor if you have a case. Don’t be intimidated to go seek his help, he won’t blow your brains out with “legal speak”.

    - PAUL MOUSER

  • Being referred to Taylor was the best thing I could have asked for. Taylor and staff are very easy to talk to. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

    - DAWN FRISENDA

  • If I ever have to go through it again I would definetly call Taylor right away. The group was so helpful through my situation and handled everything that needed to be done. They made a stressful situation a stress free situation. With Taylor you dont have to worry about one thing. Definietly would recomend to anyone.

    - TAYLOR G.

  • Efficient, knowledgeable, and friendly.

    - NOAH SCHUMAKER

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Manchin Injury Law Group, Took care of me when I got into a car accident while I was pregnant. Very scary moment for a first time mom but thankfully Manchin Injury Law Group had my back and treated me great. They made me feel as if I was part of their family. My son is now 7 Months Old and very happy and healthy. I’m very thankful for them for helping me through everything and getting me what we deserved. I 100% would recommend them to anyone. If I ever have an accident again they will be my number 1 phone call!

    - SHAWNNA SHAFFER.

  • The support given helped me to feel like I was included in my personal injury case every step of the way. I was informed about the entire process throughout. It was amazing how quick the turn around time was and I would definitely recommend Attorney Timothy J. Manchin to anyone!

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Taylor and Kelly worked hard on my case so I didn’t have to. Thanks guys!

    - TERRI L. ARMENTROUT

  • Excellent experience dealing with Manchin Injury Law. They were very responsive, professional and easy to talk to. I did my homework before I hired a lawyer after my accident and I am so glad I found Manchin Injury Law Group. If you are injured, give them a call!

    - VILLA COVENANTS

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - CHAD BILOTTA

  • Kelly and Taylor did all the hard work so that I didn’t have to. They both cared about my circumstance and got me a nice settlement. Taylor knows what he is doing and I felt comfortable with my case in his hands.

    - JASON + STACIE MORGAN

  • Great lawyers. They helped me with a West Virginia case.

    - JOSEPH SAUNDERS

  • Such a great experience with Taylor and this firm. Thankful for their diligence and their work on our case. Thank you to all!

    - RENEE FLORENCE WARNER

  • Had a easy and smooth experience with a great attorney so when you go there make sure you ask for Taylor.

    - TIM CROSS

  • My experience at the Manchin Injury Law Group was extremely positive, and I would recommend them to anyone who needs a compassionate and experienced lawyer on their side.

    - TAMMY LACARIA

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