If you were hurt in an accident in Clinton, the steps you take next can shape your recovery and your future. From collisions on Route 31 and I‑78 to falls in local stores and parks, injuries disrupt work, health, and finances. New Jersey law provides a path to seek compensation for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering, but the process can be intimidating. At the Law Office of Edward Appel, we help people in Clinton and across Hunterdon County understand their options, communicate with insurers, and pursue fair results while they focus on healing and getting life back on track.
Every injury case is different, and even seemingly straightforward claims can involve detailed medical records, questions about fault, and strict deadlines. Insurers often move quickly to gather statements and push early offers that may not reflect the full impact of an injury. Our Clinton-focused approach begins with listening to your story and identifying the facts that matter for New Jersey law. We explain the process in plain language, outline a practical plan, and work to protect your rights from day one. If you’re unsure where to start, a conversation can clarify your options and give you a clear path forward.
After an accident, you face medical decisions, missed work, and pressure from adjusters seeking quick resolutions. Having a steady advocate helps balance the scales. A focused personal injury practice in Clinton can evaluate liability, preserve evidence before it disappears, and present your damages in a way that reflects your real losses. You gain support in coordinating care, managing claims paperwork, and negotiating with insurers who handle these cases every day. Most importantly, you get a strategy tailored to New Jersey law and the local courts, so your claim is not just filed, but thoughtfully advanced at each stage.
The Law Office of Edward Appel is a New Jersey firm representing clients in Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, and DUI matters. From our work with Clinton residents and visitors, we understand how quickly a normal day can change when an accident occurs. We take time to understand your medical needs and the real-world effects on your family and career, then build a claim that reflects the full picture. Our approach emphasizes communication, preparation, and practical problem-solving. When you call 856-856-2373, you will speak with a team committed to clarity, responsiveness, and steady advocacy from the first call through resolution.
Personal injury law allows people harmed by another’s careless or wrongful conduct to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and the human impact of an injury. In New Jersey, most claims begin with insurance, but they’re governed by legal standards such as negligence and comparative fault. Evidence matters: photos, witness accounts, medical records, and repair estimates can shape outcomes. Deadlines also matter. In many cases, you have two years to file suit, and some claims have shorter notice requirements. Understanding these rules early helps preserve your rights and positions your claim for a fair, timely resolution.
New Jersey’s no-fault auto system adds another layer for crash cases. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) may pay medical expenses regardless of fault, but choices on your policy can affect which doctors you can see and whether you can pursue pain and suffering damages. If you were injured on someone else’s property, different standards apply, focusing on notice and the reasonableness of the owner’s safety measures. Each category of claim has unique proof requirements and defenses. A clear understanding of these rules lets us guide you on strategy, documentation, and timing so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
A personal injury claim is a legal process to recover money for harms caused by another person or entity’s careless or wrongful actions. Typical cases include vehicle collisions, slip and fall incidents, unsafe property conditions, dog bites, and defective products. The goal is to make you whole by addressing medical treatment costs, lost income, and the physical and emotional impact of the injury. Most claims start by notifying the responsible insurer, exchanging information, and negotiating. If settlement doesn’t reflect the full damages, a lawsuit may be filed, and the case proceeds through discovery, motions, and potentially trial.
Successful injury claims typically require proof of duty, breach, causation, and damages. In practice, this means showing the other party had a responsibility to act safely, failed to do so, and that failure caused your injuries and losses. The process often includes prompt medical care, preservation of evidence, claim notice to insurers, and a thorough damages assessment. New Jersey generally provides a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, with exceptions. Comparative negligence rules may reduce recovery if you share fault, but you can still recover if you are not more at fault than the defendants.
Legal wording can feel overwhelming when you are trying to recover. This quick glossary explains the terms you’ll hear most in a Clinton personal injury case, using plain language and real-world examples. Understanding concepts like negligence, comparative negligence, damages, and the statute of limitations helps you track what matters and why. With a shared vocabulary, conversations with insurers, medical providers, and our office become easier and more productive. If a term isn’t clear, we’ll explain how it applies to your situation and what evidence we’ll use to support your claim under New Jersey law.
Negligence is the legal term for carelessness that causes harm. It means someone failed to act as a reasonably careful person would under the circumstances, and that failure led to injury. Examples include a driver looking at a phone, a store ignoring a wet floor, or a property owner leaving broken steps unrepaired. To prove negligence, we show there was a duty to act safely, that duty was breached, and the breach caused your injuries and losses. Medical records, photos, witness statements, and expert evaluations can all help demonstrate negligence and link it to your damages.
Comparative negligence is how New Jersey allocates responsibility when more than one person shares fault. If you were partly at fault, your recovery can be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you were ten percent at fault, your damages may be reduced by ten percent. However, you can still recover as long as your share of fault is not greater than the defendants’. This rule encourages fair outcomes by reflecting how accidents happen in the real world. Evidence that clarifies who did what, and why, often makes a significant difference in the final result.
The statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit. In many New Jersey personal injury cases, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file. Some claims, such as those involving public entities, have shorter notice requirements and special procedures, so it is important to act promptly. Missing a deadline can end your ability to pursue compensation, even if liability is clear. Early evaluation helps identify the correct time limits and ensures that evidence is preserved, witnesses are contacted, and your case is positioned properly before the clock runs out.
Damages are the losses you can recover in a personal injury case. They include medical expenses, future treatment needs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and non-economic losses such as physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Documenting damages requires thorough medical records, billing statements, employment verification, and sometimes expert opinions to project future costs. In settlement discussions or at trial, clear evidence of how the injury has changed your daily life can be just as important as numbers. The goal is to present a complete, credible picture of the harm you suffered.
Some straightforward claims can be handled directly with an insurer, especially when injuries are minor and liability is undisputed. However, when injuries linger, medical bills grow, or fault is contested, having representation can protect your rights and help secure a result that reflects the full impact of the accident. Lawyers identify coverage, manage communications, and prepare your case for negotiation or suit under New Jersey law. In Clinton, local experience with insurers and courts can add practical value. Whether you choose to proceed alone or with counsel, early guidance can help you avoid mistakes and preserve your options.
If an accident causes only minor property damage and you were not hurt, a limited approach may be appropriate. In these scenarios, you can often work directly with the insurer to obtain repair estimates, schedule repairs, and resolve the claim. Keep careful records, including photos of the damage and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses. Confirm your coverage and deductibles, and request clear statements of any settlement terms in writing. Because there are no medical issues or long-term effects, the risk of undervaluing the claim is lower, and a streamlined resolution can save time and stress.
A limited approach may also work where liability is undisputed, injuries resolved quickly, and the insurer promptly accepts responsibility. For example, if a rear-end collision caused a short course of treatment with full recovery, early documentation and straightforward negotiations can lead to a fair settlement. Maintain organized medical records and bills, and confirm the insurer’s evaluation reflects all your costs. Before agreeing to any release, ensure you are medically stable and understand the terms. Even with a cooperative adjuster, it is wise to double-check that your future needs and any lien issues are fully addressed.
When injuries are significant, involve surgery or rehabilitation, or affect your ability to work or care for your family, comprehensive representation is often the safest path. These cases require careful coordination with medical providers, detailed documentation, and a forward-looking damages analysis that accounts for future care, wage loss, and the human impact of lasting symptoms. Insurers frequently challenge causation or the extent of treatment, making clear medical narratives essential. A thorough strategy helps present your case completely, protect against premature settlements, and position you for fair negotiations or litigation if the insurer refuses to be reasonable.
When fault is contested, or multiple drivers, businesses, or property owners are involved, a comprehensive approach helps sort out responsibility and insurance coverage. These claims may require accident reconstruction, site inspections, or subpoenas for records. New Jersey’s comparative negligence rules and insurance policy limits can significantly affect outcomes, so identifying all potential sources of recovery is important. Early preservation of video, scene conditions, and witness accounts can make the difference. With several parties and carriers involved, coordinated communications, deadlines, and negotiations help keep the case on track and ensure no opportunity for recovery is overlooked.
A comprehensive approach brings structure and clarity to a stressful situation. From day one, the focus is on preserving evidence, coordinating care, and documenting damages in a way that resonates with adjusters, mediators, and jurors. You receive guidance on dealing with insurers, medical providers, and billing offices, as well as help identifying all applicable coverage. This holistic view also accounts for future needs and potential liens, reducing surprises at settlement. By anticipating defenses and addressing them with solid proof, your claim is presented in the strongest, most organized manner possible under New Jersey law.
Comprehensive representation helps level the playing field when you are facing well-resourced insurers. It brings disciplined case management, proactive communication, and a step-by-step plan that adapts as your medical picture evolves. Thorough preparation encourages fair settlements and ensures you are ready to litigate if necessary. The result is not only a stronger claim, but also more peace of mind. You can focus on your recovery and daily responsibilities while your legal team handles the paperwork, deadlines, and strategic decisions that drive your case toward a fair and timely resolution.
A comprehensive approach ensures your case is supported by credible evidence and a clear damages narrative. Medical records are organized, treatment plans are understood, and wage loss is substantiated. We work with your providers to capture how the injury affects your mobility, sleep, and daily routines, not just the diagnosis codes. With this foundation, valuation becomes more accurate, reflecting both current and future needs. This detail helps counter low offers and supports negotiations that are grounded in facts, not assumptions. The goal is to present your claim in a way that is complete, persuasive, and fair.
When your file is prepared for court, even if settlement is the goal, negotiations tend to improve. Thorough demands, backed by evidence and New Jersey case law, prompt more realistic evaluations from insurers. If discussions stall, being ready to file suit keeps momentum and preserves leverage. We outline likely defenses in advance and plan how to address them with testimony, records, and, when helpful, expert opinions. This strategy signals seriousness, reduces delay tactics, and increases the odds of resolving your claim on terms that truly reflect the impact the injury has had on your life.
Prompt medical care protects your health and your claim. Some injuries, like concussions or soft tissue damage, may not fully appear for days, but early evaluation creates an important record linking the accident to your symptoms. Follow your provider’s recommendations, attend appointments, and keep copies of discharge instructions and prescriptions. Consistency matters: gaps in treatment can be used by insurers to argue your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the incident. If you have trouble scheduling care under your policy, let us know. We can help you understand your options and keep your recovery on track.
Insurance adjusters may request recorded statements or medical authorizations soon after an accident. While cooperation is important, you are not required to rush into broad releases or on-the-spot interviews. Stick to facts and avoid speculation about fault or the severity of injuries before you’ve seen a doctor. Ask for questions in writing when possible and limit authorizations to relevant dates and providers. If you feel pressured, tell the adjuster you will respond after reviewing the request. We can help you manage communications so your words are not taken out of context and your privacy is respected throughout the process.
When injuries disrupt your work and daily life, handling claims while you recover can feel overwhelming. A Clinton injury lawyer can take on the legwork, identify all sources of coverage, and make sure your damages are presented completely and on time. Local familiarity with Hunterdon County providers, courts, and insurers helps streamline issues and anticipate obstacles. If the insurance company disputes liability or undervalues your claim, an advocate can push back with evidence and clear legal arguments, empowering you to focus on healing while your case moves forward with a deliberate, well-documented strategy.
Even if you are unsure about hiring a lawyer, a consultation helps you understand your rights and avoid common pitfalls. We explain New Jersey rules, deadlines, and how policy choices like PIP or limited tort may affect your options. We also discuss practical steps for coordinating treatment and managing bills as your case progresses. With this guidance, you can decide whether your claim can be handled directly with the insurer or whether representation would add value. Either way, early advice can help protect your health, preserve evidence, and strengthen your position from the start.
Personal injury claims in Clinton often arise from motor vehicle crashes on Route 31 and I‑78, falls at commercial properties, unsafe sidewalks, dog bites, and hazardous conditions at rental homes or construction sites. Weather, lighting, and property maintenance can play important roles in determining responsibility. Even seemingly minor incidents can lead to significant medical care if injuries worsen over time. Understanding how New Jersey law assigns responsibility in each situation helps you evaluate the strength of your claim and the steps needed to document it. If any of these situations sound familiar, the sooner you get guidance, the better.
Busy stretches near Clinton can lead to rear-end crashes, lane-change impacts, and multi-vehicle collisions, especially during peak travel times or poor weather. These cases often involve multiple insurers, including PIP coverage, liability carriers, and sometimes underinsured motorist policies. Documenting the scene with photos, obtaining the police report, and seeking prompt medical care are key first steps. If vehicles are towed, note the storage location. We review your policy to identify benefits and help coordinate care while we gather records and statements. When fault is disputed, we may consult reconstruction resources or seek additional video to clarify what happened.
Falls in stores, restaurants, or parking lots often result from liquids, debris, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting. To establish liability in New Jersey, we typically show the business created the hazard or had notice of it and failed to correct it within a reasonable time. Taking photos immediately, noting witnesses, and reporting the incident to management can help preserve evidence. Medical documentation linking your injuries to the fall is equally important. We promptly request incident reports and surveillance footage when available, and we evaluate maintenance policies and inspection routines to determine whether reasonable safety measures were followed.
New Jersey imposes strict liability for dog bites in many circumstances, making the owner responsible regardless of prior behavior. Other property hazards—like broken steps, loose railings, or unlit walkways—require proof that the owner knew or should have known about the condition. Prompt medical care and reporting are essential, especially to prevent infection and document injuries. Photos, animal control reports, and neighbor statements often prove helpful. We evaluate homeowner or renter’s insurance coverage, property records, and any prior complaints. Our goal is to ensure that the harm you suffered is recognized and appropriately addressed through the available insurance channels.
Clients choose us for attentive service and a practical, results-oriented approach. We keep you informed, return calls, and make sure you understand the pros and cons of each decision. Our process is built around careful preparation: gathering records, coordinating with medical providers, and presenting your damages in a clear, persuasive way. We know the local landscape and tailor our strategy to the realities of Clinton and Hunterdon County. Throughout your case, we focus on both the legal details and the day-to-day challenges you’re facing, so your claim reflects the full impact of your injuries.
Negotiating with insurers requires patience, documentation, and a firm handle on New Jersey law. We prepare comprehensive demand packages that highlight liability, medical support, and the human story behind your injuries. When offers fail to reflect the true value of your claim, we’re ready to escalate while keeping you informed about risks, costs, and timelines. Our goal is to position your case for the best available outcome, whether that means settlement, mediation, or litigation. You will always know where your case stands and what we’re doing to move it toward a fair resolution.
We understand that legal services must be accessible and transparent. From your first call, we outline how fees work, what to expect at each stage, and what we need from you to make the process as efficient as possible. We also help with practical issues like medical scheduling, lien questions, and documentation. Our Clinton clients appreciate that we treat them like people, not files. Every decision is made with your goals in mind, and every step is explained in plain language. That’s how we aim to reduce stress while advancing your claim with purpose and care.
We follow a clear, step-by-step process designed to reduce stress and build strong cases. It begins with a thorough consultation to understand your injuries, treatment, and goals. We then gather records, investigate liability, and identify all insurance coverage. With evidence in hand, we prepare a comprehensive demand and negotiate with the insurer. If negotiations stall, we discuss filing suit and proceed with discovery and motions as appropriate. Throughout, you’ll receive updates and practical guidance, so you can make informed decisions. Our approach is built to keep your case moving while you focus on healing.
Our work starts with listening. We review what happened, your medical status, and how the injury is affecting your life. We gather initial documents such as the police report, photos, and any insurance information. Then we map out a plan tailored to New Jersey law and your goals. We identify urgent tasks—like preserving video or notifying insurers—and explain how to protect your claim from common pitfalls. You will leave this step with a clear understanding of the process, likely timelines, and what to expect as we begin building the strongest possible presentation of your case.
Every case starts with your story. We want to understand the full picture: how the incident occurred, the symptoms you’re experiencing, and what a successful outcome looks like for you. We talk through your medical providers, work responsibilities, and family obligations so our plan fits your schedule and priorities. Clear objectives guide our strategy, whether that means an efficient settlement or preparing for litigation. We also explain your role and ours, defining responsibilities and timelines. With shared goals and open communication, we can move forward efficiently and make sure the work we do reflects what matters most to you.
We collect and review the key documents—accident reports, photos, witness details, and early medical records—to assess liability and damages. If evidence needs preservation, we send prompt notices to businesses or agencies. We also review your insurance policies to identify available benefits, including PIP for medical bills in auto cases and any applicable underinsured motorist coverage. With this information, we create an initial strategy that outlines investigation tasks, documentation needs, and a timeline for demand. This proactive work sets the tone for negotiations and ensures your claim is built on credible, well-organized proof from the start.
In this phase, we deepen the investigation and document your damages thoroughly. We request complete medical records and bills, communicate with providers, and track treatment progress. If fault is disputed, we gather additional evidence, such as site inspections, video, or witness statements. We also analyze insurance coverage and potential liens to avoid surprises later. The result is a comprehensive case file that clearly explains liability and the full scope of your losses. With a strong record in place, we are ready to present your claim to the insurer and pursue a fair, timely resolution.
We coordinate with your doctors to obtain complete, timely records and ensure they clearly connect your treatment to the incident. When appropriate, we request narrative reports that explain diagnoses, causation, and future care. We track billing and insurance payments, including PIP benefits, and verify balances to protect your credit and settlement funds. If you’re having trouble scheduling appointments, we help identify options. Accurate, organized documentation transforms your experience into evidence, making it easier for adjusters, mediators, and jurors to understand the impact of your injuries and the support behind your claim.
Once we’ve built a strong record, we notify the insurer formally and prepare a detailed demand package. This includes a clear summary of liability, medical timelines, itemized bills, wage verification, and a persuasive narrative showing how your life has been affected. We attach key exhibits and highlight the evidence that supports your claim under New Jersey law. Our demand sets expectations for negotiation and invites a productive dialogue on valuation. If the carrier’s response is inadequate, we discuss next steps—whether that means additional information, mediation, or litigation—to keep your claim moving toward a fair outcome.
With a complete record in hand, we negotiate from a position of strength. We evaluate offers against your medical needs, lost income, and the human impact of your injuries. If negotiations do not yield a fair result, we file suit and proceed through discovery, depositions, and, if necessary, trial. Throughout this stage, we explain risks and timelines so you can make informed decisions. Settlement remains possible at each step, and prepared cases typically receive more serious attention. Our aim is to secure a resolution that reflects the full scope of your losses and supports your recovery.
Negotiations work best when your claim is fully documented and thoughtfully presented. We emphasize liability proof, medical support, and day-to-day impacts that bring your story to life. We also identify verdicts and settlements in similar New Jersey cases to inform valuation. If the insurer raises defenses, we respond with targeted evidence and clear explanations. By staying organized and persistent, we press for movement while keeping lines of communication open. You’ll receive clear recommendations, but the decision to accept or decline rests with you. Our role is to provide the information you need to choose confidently.
If litigation becomes necessary, we file a complaint within the statute of limitations and advance the case through discovery. We take and defend depositions, exchange documents, and consult with treating providers and, when helpful, qualified experts. We brief legal issues as they arise and continue exploring settlement through conferences or mediation. Trial is a last resort, but being prepared for it strengthens negotiations. Throughout, we keep you informed about deadlines, hearings, and what to expect. Our focus is on presenting a clear, credible case that reflects your experience and supports a fair result under New Jersey law.
In many New Jersey personal injury cases, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. Some claims have shorter notice requirements, particularly those involving public entities, which may require a notice of claim within ninety days. Because deadlines vary and exceptions exist, it’s important to evaluate your case as soon as possible to preserve your rights and evidence. Acting early also helps us secure critical proof like surveillance video, witness statements, and scene conditions before they change. Even if you’re still treating, we can begin investigating liability and notifying insurers. If you’re uncertain about your deadline, call 856-856-2373 so we can review the facts, identify applicable time limits, and outline steps to keep your options open under New Jersey law.
New Jersey follows comparative negligence rules. If you are partly at fault, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. You can still recover damages as long as your share of fault is not greater than the defendants’. For example, being twenty percent at fault could reduce your award by that same percentage. Determining fault is often complex and evidence-driven. Photos, video, vehicle damage, and witness accounts can clarify what happened. We investigate thoroughly to challenge unfair allocations of responsibility and highlight the conduct that truly caused your injuries. Early guidance helps avoid statements or documentation that might be misinterpreted and used to inflate your share of fault.
It’s wise to be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters before you’ve had legal guidance. Adjusters may ask for recorded statements or broad medical authorizations very early in the process. While cooperation is important, you don’t need to rush into statements before understanding your rights, your medical status, and how New Jersey law applies to your situation. We can help manage communications, limit authorizations to relevant time periods, and frame responses carefully. This reduces the risk that your words will be taken out of context or used to undervalue your claim. Even a short consultation can clarify what information to provide, how to protect your privacy, and when a statement might be appropriate.
Case value is based on liability strength and documented damages, including medical expenses, future care, lost income, reduced earning capacity, and non-economic harms like pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Comparable outcomes in similar New Jersey cases can help inform negotiations, but your specific medical course and recovery timeline are central factors. We build value by gathering complete medical records, obtaining narrative reports from providers, and creating a clear timeline that connects the incident to your symptoms and treatment. We also address liens and future needs to avoid surprises later. With accurate, organized documentation, we present a grounded valuation and advocate for a fair result reflecting your unique circumstances.
Many injury cases settle without filing a lawsuit, and many lawsuits settle before trial. Whether your case goes to court depends on liability disputes, the complexity of damages, and the insurer’s willingness to negotiate reasonably. We approach each case as if it could be litigated, which strengthens our position in settlement discussions. If litigation becomes necessary, we explain the process, risks, and timelines, and we continue pursuing settlement opportunities along the way. Discovery, depositions, and motion practice can resolve disputes or narrow the issues for trial. Our goal is to secure a fair outcome as efficiently as possible, while keeping you informed at every stage.
At the Law Office of Edward Appel, we discuss fee structures at the outset so there are no surprises. In most personal injury cases, legal fees are contingency-based, meaning we only get paid if we recover money for you. We also explain how case costs work and when they are incurred, so you can make informed choices about strategy and next steps. Transparency matters. We detail the fee agreement in writing, answer questions about potential expenses, and provide updates as the case progresses. If your needs change, we revisit options together. Our aim is to align incentives, deliver clear value, and ensure you are comfortable with the financial aspects of your case.
Bringing key documents helps us evaluate your case quickly. Useful items include the police report or incident report, photos of the scene and injuries, names of witnesses, medical records and bills to date, health insurance and auto insurance cards, and any letters from insurers. A short timeline of events and a list of providers you’ve seen can also be very helpful. If you don’t have everything yet, don’t worry. We can start with what you have and request the rest. During the consultation, we’ll discuss your symptoms, treatment plan, work limitations, and your goals for the case. The more we understand, the better we can tailor a plan that fits your needs and timeline.
Yes. We regularly help clients coordinate treatment and address medical bills during a pending claim. In auto cases, PIP coverage can pay for medical expenses regardless of fault, subject to policy limits and rules. We work with providers to route bills correctly and obtain required authorizations. We also track balances to avoid collections and surprise liens at settlement. For non-auto claims, we explore health insurance options, letters of protection where appropriate, and potential medical financing resources. Our goal is to keep your care on track while we pursue compensation. Clear communication with providers and insurers helps reduce stress and protects your financial interests as your case moves forward.
If the at-fault driver has minimal or no coverage, your own policy may include uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) benefits. These benefits can step in to cover losses up to your policy limits. We review your declarations page, identify available coverage, and coordinate claims to avoid conflicts or missed deadlines. UM/UIM claims still require strong proof of liability and damages, and insurers will evaluate them critically. We prepare your file thoroughly, just as we would for a liability claim, and present a clear valuation. If disputes arise, we pursue negotiation, mediation, or litigation as appropriate under New Jersey law to seek the fairest available outcome.
Every case is unique. Some claims with minor injuries and clear liability can resolve in a few months, once treatment stabilizes and records are complete. Cases involving significant injuries, disputed fault, or complex damages often take longer. Lawsuits add additional time due to discovery, motions, and court schedules. We discuss realistic timelines at the start and update you as your medical picture evolves. While speed matters, resolution should not come at the expense of fairness. Settling too early can undervalue your claim if future needs aren’t clear. We balance efficiency with completeness, pushing the process forward while ensuring your damages are fully documented. Our aim is a timely outcome that reflects the true impact of your injuries.