What Is a Personal Injury Claim?Everything You Need to Know Before Filing

If you’ve been hurt because of someone else’s negligence — in a car crash, a workplace accident, or a slip-and-fall — you may be legally entitled to financial compensation. But understanding how to secure that compensation starts with one key question: “What is a personal injury claim, and how do you file one?”

This guide explains what qualifies as a personal injury claim, when and how to file, what it may be worth, and why partnering with the right legal expert is critical from day one. 

If you’re not sure where to begin, platforms like OwchBuddy make it easy to connect with trusted attorneys who’ve handled cases just like yours. Read on for more!

What Is a Personal Injury Claim?

A personal injury claim is a formal request for compensation made by someone who was physically or emotionally harmed due to another person’s actions — or failure to act responsibly. It can be resolved through an insurance settlement or a lawsuit, depending on the circumstances.

The goal of the claim is to “make you whole” — by covering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other financial or personal losses tied to the injury.

Many people turn to OwchBuddy because they’re unsure if what happened to them even qualifies as a claim. In just a few clicks, you can get a clear answer and talk to a lawyer who’s handled dozens of cases just like yours. It’s free and there are no obligations. Try it out yourself!

When Should You File a Personal Injury Claim?

You should file a personal injury claim as soon as possible after your injury. Why? Because:

• Evidence fades — video footage, eyewitness memory, and physical signs degrade quickly;
• Medical documentation is time-sensitive — delays can weaken your claim;
• Insurers may pressure you into lowball offers — especially before you understand your full rights;
• Statutes of limitations apply — and missing deadlines could bar your claim entirely.

Whether it’s been hours or weeks since your injury, OwchBuddy helps you act quickly — with zero upfront costs and instant legal access. It’s the fastest way to get professional legal help.

Common Types of Personal Injury Claims

Personal injury law covers a wide range of scenarios. The most common claims include:

• Auto accidents — cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians;
• Slip and fall injuries — on public or private property;
• Workplace injuries — especially when third-party negligence is involved;
• Medical malpractice — surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or negligence;
• Product liability — defective or dangerous consumer products;
• Dog bites or animal attacks — involving negligence by the owner.

Every case type comes with its own legal nuances. OwchBuddy pairs you with attorneys who specialize in your exact type of case — no guesswork required. You won’t have to worry about their experience and professionalism, as we’ve already vetted each attorney and their skills.

How Much Is a Personal Injury Claim Worth?

Claim values vary significantly, depending on the severity of injuries and the impact on your life. Common factors that affect compensation include:

• Emergency care and ongoing medical treatment;
• Physical therapy or rehabilitation costs;
• Lost wages and future income loss;
• Emotional distress or mental anguish;
• Property damage;
• General pain and suffering.

Some claims settle for $5,000–$20,000; others go into six figures or more — especially when permanent injuries or long-term disabilities are involved. If you want to know what your case might be worth, OwchBuddy makes it easy to request a free case evaluation and get a realistic estimate.

What Do You Need to Start a Claim?

You don’t need to have every detail figured out. A lawyer can help you gather:

• Medical records and treatment summaries;
• Accident reports and witness statements;
• Insurance information;
• Photos or videos of the incident;
• Documentation of income loss.

If you’re not sure where to start, OwchBuddy takes care of the heavy lifting by connecting you with professionals who know exactly what to do next. They’ll fully guide through each step and help you understand all required actions.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Claim Take?

This depends on the types of claims:

• Simple claims may settle in 4–12 weeks;
• Moderate claims usually resolve in 3–6 months;
• Complex cases, including trials or long-term disability, can take 12+ months.

The timeline depends on the complexity of the injury, the number of parties involved, and the willingness of the insurer to settle. The good news: you pay nothing unless your lawyer wins. OwchBuddy’s attorneys work on a contingency basis.

Why Legal Help Matters in a Personal Injury Claim

Insurance companies are not on your side. They have teams of lawyers trained to minimize payouts — and without representation, you’re at a significant disadvantage.

Here’s what can go wrong without a lawyer:

• You accept far less than your case is worth;
• You miss deadlines that void your right to compensation;
• You say something damaging in recorded conversations;
• You get buried in paperwork and procedural delays.

OwchBuddy puts real legal power in your corner — fast, local, and free to start.

Injured? Find Out If You Have a Personal Injury Claim Today

If you’re asking yourself, “Do I really have a case?”, don’t leave it to chance.

With OwchBuddy, you can:

• Connect with top-rated personal injury lawyers near you;
• Schedule a free consultation in minutes;
• Pay nothing unless you win;
• Start your claim online, from your phone or laptop.

Try it out for free and take the first step toward the compensation you deserve.
Your health matters. Your rights matter. Let someone fight for both.