Personal injury refers to an injury to a person’s body—also known as bodily injury—or to their mind or emotional well-being—also referred to as emotional distress or pain and suffering. The term personal injury is also used to refer to a broad category of legal claims involving personal injuries or death.

Claims for personal injuries are generally known as torts—wrongful acts that are done intentionally or negligently, or for which there is liability without proving negligence (strict liability).

Personal injury claims are primarily a matter of state law and may be compensated by the court system if the injured person—also known as the claimant, or the plaintiff if a lawsuit is filed—can prove liability (another person or entity caused the personal injury) and damages (medical expenses, permanent disability, death).

In Wyoming, personal injury law allows individuals who have suffered bodily injuries or emotional distress due to the actions or negligence of another party to seek compensation through the court system. These claims fall under the category of tort law, which encompasses wrongful acts that are either intentional, negligent, or subject to strict liability (where fault does not need to be proven). To succeed in a personal injury claim in Wyoming, the injured party (claimant or plaintiff) must establish that the other party (defendant) is liable for the injury and that they have incurred damages as a result. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. Wyoming's statutes and case law govern the specifics of personal injury claims, including the statute of limitations for filing a claim, which is generally four years for most personal injury actions. It is important for claimants to be aware of this time frame to ensure their right to seek compensation is not lost.