Claim

What is a Claim?

A claim is a legal action concerning physical or mental harm suffered by the plaintiff due to the defendant’s negligence. In the case of insurance claims, it is a request made by the insured to the insurance company for coverage and compensation for damage or injury. A claim is sometimes also referred to as a Cause of Action.

What is a Claim?

Cornell Law School’s Legal Information Institute defines a claim as, “a set of operative facts creating a right enforceable in court.” Making a claim is how the process of a plaintiff filing a lawsuit and eventually receiving damages from a defendant begins. A claim must be present in order for a lawsuit to go forward. If one is not present in a specific instance, then that lawsuit will be dismissed. Examples of types of claims include claims to insurance companies, personal injury claims in cases of negligence, claims on breaches of contract, property claims, and employment claims such as unpaid wages, wrongful termination, or discrimination. A defendant may make a counterclaim against the claim of a plaintiff.

Claims can sometimes be dismissed even if there is an intent to file a lawsuit. Rulings in cases such as Ashcroft v. IQBAL and Bell Atlantic v. Twombly have determined that claims need to contain important information. They must be plausible on their own and establish a likelihood of liability. This is how claims can lead to fair compensation, resolution of disputes, and protection of rights.

More information about Claim

Pittsburgh Construction Accident Lawyer

After suffering an injury on-site, you need a Pittsburgh construction accident lawyer to stand up for your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Construction accidents are rarely simple. There are often multiple parties involved, and the responsible party may not be immediately apparent. Acting early can make a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds.

At Munley Law, our experienced, award-winning attorneys can begin gathering evidence, handling communication with insurers, and building a strong claim while you focus on healing. Having that support in place helps you avoid costly mistakes and keeps your case moving in the right direction. Contact us for a free consultation today.

Understanding Construction Injuries

Construction sites can be hazardous environments, posing significant risks to workers and bystanders. From falls and heavy machinery accidents to electrical incidents and collapsing structures, construction injuries can have devastating consequences. […]

Why Should I Hire a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer?

When injuries are severe, like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or amputations, the impact goes far beyond the initial trauma. Medical care can stretch on for years, daily routines may never look the same, and the financial pressure can build quickly. In moments like these, having the right legal support is critical for shaping your future.

In a catastrophic injury claim, the stakes are higher, the details are more involved, and the outcome matters deeply for your long-term well-being. You’re forced to plan for ongoing care, lost income, and the kind of support that helps you maintain your quality of life.

At Munley Law, our Pittsburgh catastrophic injury lawyers understand that our clients are facing one of the hardest chapters of their lives. We have extensive experience with serious injury cases, along with a strong track record of results. More importantly, we focus on giving clients the space to heal while we handle the legal side of things. […]

Pittsburgh Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers

Finding the right Pittsburgh tractor-trailer accident lawyer can mean the difference between just compensation and unnecessary hardship after you’ve been involved in an accident with these heavy trucks in Allegheny County. Thankfully, with Munley Law, legal representation you can trust is in easy reach. Our board-certified attorneys have championed the rights of injured Pennsylvanians since 1959, helping them recover more than $1 billion in damages.

All our lawyers are members of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the American Association for Justice. Two of our lawyers have led the association’s Trucking Litigation Group, and all our partners have received Martindale-Hubbell’s highest ratings, AV Preeminent. Our firm and our lawyers are routinely honored by some of the most respected legal organizations, such as Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, Best Law Firms, Irish Legal 100, and the International Society of Barristers.

If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, […]

Pittsburgh Texting While Driving Accident Lawyer

Munley Law’s Pittsburgh texting while driving accident lawyers can help you take action if you’ve been injured by a distracted driver in western Pennsylvania. Texting behind the wheel is one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving, dramatically increasing the risk of serious crashes. Even a momentary lack of attention on the road can have devastating repercussions for other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.

In Pittsburgh and throughout Allegheny County, texting-related accidents continue to cause life-changing injuries, from broken bones and spinal damage to traumatic brain injuries, not to mention the financial implications of such a crash. Understanding your legal rights after a texting while driving accident is the first step toward recovering compensation and holding the at-fault driver accountable.

Working with an experienced law firm like Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. With almost 70 years of experience, […]

How Long After a Car Accident Can You Sue in Pittsburgh?

If you’ve been injured in a crash, a Pittsburgh car accident lawyer can help you understand exactly how long you have to take legal action, and why timing matters more than most people realize. In Pennsylvania, strict laws govern how long you can wait before filing a lawsuit, and missing that deadline can mean losing your right to compensation entirely. Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical bills, lost income, or ongoing pain, knowing your legal timeframe is the first step toward protecting your claim.

With decades of experience handling Pennsylvania car accident claims, Munley Law’s Pittsburgh car accident lawyers know how to move quickly, preserve critical evidence, and build strong cases from day one. When time is limited and the stakes are high, having a trusted legal team on your side can give you clarity, confidence, and the best possible chance at securing the compensation you deserve. […]

Pittsburgh Wrongful Death Lawyer

Munley Law’s Pittsburgh wrongful death lawyers help families seek justice after losing a loved one to someone else’s negligence. Our family-run firm has spent nearly seven decades representing victims in Pennsylvania, earning national recognition and multi-million-dollar verdicts in complex injury and fatality cases. Just some of our wrongful death settlements include $3.9 million, $2.74 million, and $1.4 million.

When a preventable tragedy results in the untimely death of a loved one, families deserve answers, accountability, and financial security. We understand the emotional and financial toll these losses create. Our Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys – including board-certified trial lawyers and leaders in national legal organizations – handle every case with compassion and precision.

From fatal crashes to medical negligence and workplace accidents, we build strong cases designed to secure meaningful results for the families we represent. Contact us today for a free consultation.

How Can Our Wrongful Death Attorneys in Pittsburgh Help? […]

Pittsburgh Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Your life can change in a second after being struck by a distracted driver. When it does, having a Pittsburgh distracted driving accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

Driving requires various types of focus, including keeping your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and your mind focused on driving. When a driver fails to do any of these actions and causes a car accident, the injury victim has the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against that driver. Our award-winning car accident lawyers have won millions of dollars in compensation for our clients injured in distracted driving cases, and are ready to fight for a similar verdict on your behalf.

If you or a loved one has experienced a motor vehicle accident that involves a distracted driver in Pittsburgh, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact one of the experienced Pittsburgh distracted driving accident attorneys at Munley Law today for a free case evaluation and learn how we can help protect your rights. […]

Workers’ Compensation for Construction Workers in Pittsburgh

When you have been hurt on the job as a construction worker in Allegheny County, having a skilled Pittsburgh workers’ compensation lawyer at your side is essential for ensuring that you get the compensation you need to restore your quality of life.

Construction workers face considerable risks when performing their day-to-day duties. The industry accounts for thousands of worker injuries and illnesses in Pennsylvania each year, ranging from sprains and strains to cuts, bruises, crush and struck-by injuries, and more severe incidents such as spine and traumatic brain injuries as well. With the sector showing consistent growth, more workers than ever are being exposed to these hazards. The board-certified workers’ compensation attorneys at Munley Law are here to protect your rights as a Pittsburgh worker and to fight for damages that adequately cover your pain, suffering, and loss of income after an accident.

Find out all about workers’ compensation for construction workers, […]

Pittsburgh Workers’ Compensation: Specific Loss Benefits

Specific loss benefits in Pittsburgh workers’ compensation provide financial recovery for workers who suffer permanent injuries, disfigurement, or loss of use of a body part on the job. These claims differ from standard wage-loss benefits and can significantly affect long-term financial stability.

At Munley Law, we have earned national recognition for our results in workers’ compensation and personal injury law, including listings in Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers, as well as multi-million-dollar recoveries for injured workers. We understand how insurers evaluate these claims and where they try to limit payouts. Our Pittsburgh workers’ compensation lawyers build strong, specific loss benefits cases backed by medical evidence and legal precision to protect your rights.

If you are dealing with a permanent injury, understanding how specific loss benefits work is the first step toward maximizing recovery.

Call the Pittsburgh workers’ […]

Pittsburgh Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

When a drunk driving accident leaves you or a loved one injured, an experienced Pittsburgh drunk driving accident lawyer can provide you with the guidance you need to secure life-changing compensation.

If you were hit by a drunk driver in Pittsburgh, you may be facing steep medical bills, loss of income, and uncertainty about the future. The good news is that the law is on your side. Still, many car accident victims never receive the full amount of compensation they are owed because insurance companies settle their claims for less.

A Pittsburgh car accident attorney at Munley Law can ensure you receive every dollar you need to make a full recovery and hold the other driver accountable. Our lawyers have been named some of the leading trial attorneys in the state, and have won millions of dollars for clients injured in drunk driving accidents, […]

How Do I Find the Best Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyer Near Me?

A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant, and when you’ve been involved in one, having an experienced Pittsburgh car accident lawyer on your side is not just beneficial—it’s pivotal to ensure that you receive fair compensation and justice.

However, in a city like Pittsburgh, with many law firms and independent practitioners, finding the right attorney can be a challenge in itself. It’s a task that demands thorough research, discernment, and a clear understanding of one’s own needs.

One law firm that is worth reaching out to is Munley Law. We are a family-owned business that has been representing Pennsylvania residents since 1959. Our partners have been ranked among Pennsylvania’s top trial lawyers, and our experienced team has secured life-changing settlements for car accident victims in Allegheny County and beyond.

Call today for a free consultation to get the process started. […]

Pittsburgh Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer

Our experienced team of Pittsburgh drowsy driver accident attorneys at Munley Law understands the devastating consequences of drowsy driving and is committed to fighting for your rights. Our team of personal injury lawyers has a proven track record of successfully handling drowsy driving cases, holding negligent drivers accountable, and securing maximum compensation for our clients.

Falling asleep at the wheel can result in catastrophic accidents, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. When someone is sleepy behind the wheel, their brain power, reflexes, and decision-making skills are impaired, just like when they’ve had a few too many drinks. With our knowledge of the Pittsburgh, PA, laws and regulations surrounding drowsy driving accidents, we are equipped to navigate the complexities of your case. Your well-being is the priority, and we will provide personalized attention, guiding you through the legal process while ensuring your voice is heard. […]

Pittsburgh Driver Error Accident Lawyer

When another driver’s mistake injures you or a loved one in Allegheny County, our Pittsburgh driver error accident lawyers will help to ensure that justice is served.

Located at the heart of Pittsburgh, the city where three rivers meet, our expert team at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys proudly serves residents of the Steel City and its surrounding communities. Each year, numerous car accidents due to driver error occur on Pittsburgh’s busy roads, from the winding byways of Squirrel Hill to the bustling intersections of Downtown, and on the parkways during the heavy rush hours.

Our experienced Pittsburgh car accident lawyers are here to provide you with dedicated, knowledgeable legal representation, helping you navigate the complexities of the law and secure the compensation you deserve.

Our attorneys have won millions for clients injured in accidents caused by driver error, and will use our full resources to fight for a fair outcome in your case. […]

Why Do I Need a Bus Accident Lawyer?

If you have been involved in a bus accident, whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or occupant of another vehicle, seeking the expertise of a Pittsburgh bus accident lawyer is essential.

At Munley Law, our bus accident lawyers specialize in the complex field of personal injury law and have the knowledge and experience to navigate the intricacies of bus accident cases. Whether it’s a public transportation bus, school bus, or private charter bus, these accidents can result in injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma.

If you are suffering from any of these after-effects, contact Munley Law today. Our board-certified attorneys have won millions for bus accident victims in Allegheny County and beyond and are ready to fight for a similar verdict on your behalf.

Consultations are free, and we charge no fees unless we win.

What Can a Bus Accident Lawyer Do For You? […]

Pittsburgh Boat Accident Lawyer

At Munley Law, our Pittsburgh boat accident lawyers understand how quickly a day on the water can turn into a life-altering event. With three major rivers converging in the heart of the city — the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio — Pittsburgh’s waterways are busy with recreational boaters, fishing vessels, and commercial traffic year-round. When accidents occur in these waters, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming.

Our personal injury lawyers take immediate action to investigate accidents on Pittsburgh’s rivers, working with maritime experts and gathering critical evidence to build strong claims. We are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and pursuing maximum compensation.

With nearly seven decades of experience, our nationally recognized trial attorneys have secured multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts and earned honors from organizations such as Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, the Irish Legal 100, and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

From your first call to the resolution of your case, […]

Pittsburgh Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits

Pittsburgh workers’ compensation death benefits provide crucial financial support to families who lose a loved one to a work-related injury or illness.

But when a workplace tragedy occurs, navigating Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system can feel overwhelming. At Munley Law, we help surviving family members secure the benefits they deserve with compassion and proven legal strength. We guide families through every step, from filing claims to challenging denials.

Our Pittsburgh workers’ compensation lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and securing financial stability during one of life’s most challenging moments. Let us help you navigate the complex workers’ compensation death benefits system so you can get the help you need. Call us today for a free case evaluation.

What Are Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits Under Pennsylvania Law?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system established under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act. […]

Pittsburgh Brain Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you love suffered a traumatic brain injury in Pittsburgh, you need a Pittsburgh brain injury lawyer with experience handling complex brain injury cases. At Munley Law, our award-winning lawyers understand that a brain injury doesn’t just change medical outcomes; it can alter every part of a person’s life, from their ability to work and communicate to their independence and long-term care needs.

These cases demand more than basic personal injury representation. They require deep knowledge of medical evidence, neuroimaging, lifelong care planning, and the financial realities families face after a catastrophic injury.

Our team works closely with medical experts, life-care planners, and economists to build a full picture of how the injury will affect your future. We then fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.

To date, we have won some of Pennsylvania’s largest settlements and verdicts, […]

Pittsburgh Birth Injury Lawyer

Munley Law’s Pittsburgh birth injury lawyers help families pursue justice when medical negligence causes life-altering harm at birth. We bring nearly seven decades of experience representing injury victims and a proven record of results in complex medical malpractice claims.

Recognized by organizations such as Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, we have earned national respect for securing significant verdicts and settlements. Our Pittsburgh attorneys combine legal skill with compassionate advocacy for families facing overwhelming challenges.

We understand the emotional and financial toll a birth injury can place on parents and children. That’s why we handle every aspect of your case while you focus on your child’s care.

From investigating medical errors to working with leading experts, Munley Law’s Pittsburgh birth injury lawyers build strong claims designed to secure the compensation your family needs for long-term support. […]

Pittsburgh Erb’s Palsy Lawyer

When a preventable birth injury changes a child’s future, Munley Law’s Pittsburgh Erb’s palsy lawyers can help your family pursue justice. We understand how overwhelming this diagnosis can feel, and we’re here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and proven legal strength.

For nearly seven decades, our nationally recognized trial lawyers have secured landmark verdicts and settlements in complex medical malpractice cases. With multiple Million Dollar Advocates Forum members and consistent recognition from Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers, we bring trusted experience to every case.

Our Pittsburgh birth injury lawyers investigate what went wrong, consult leading medical experts, and fight for full and fair compensation. Contact Munley Law today for a free consultation and learn how we can fight to protect your best interests after a birth injury.

What Is Erb’s Palsy and How Does It Affect Newborns?

Pittsburgh erb's palsy lawyer Also known as Erb-Duchenne paralysis, […]

Pittsburgh Fatal Truck Accident Lawyer

If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, our Pittsburgh fatal truck accident lawyers can help you pursue justice for your loss. Since 1959, we’ve helped the surviving family of those killed in truck accidents negotiate with insurance companies and fight trucking companies in court, obtaining settlements and verdicts such as an $8 million settlement for two motorists who were struck and killed by an out-of-control tractor-trailer.

At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, our goal is to take on the legal challenges that come with fighting for justice, so that you and your family can focus on emotional recovery. Our truck accident lawyers in Pittsburgh, three of whom are board-certified in Truck Accident Law, have been recognized as the best in the country in truck accident litigation. As a result of our expertise in this field, we’ve been honored by the American Association for Justice, […]