Life in a close-knit town like Gothenburg, Nebraska, is often defined by strong community ties, local traditions, and the comfort of knowing your neighbors. Yet, when a serious accident strikes, it can disrupt everything you have worked so hard to build. One unexpected incident can leave you struggling with medical bills, painful treatments, and the uncertainty of how to move forward.

At Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, LLC, we understand the enormous toll that personal injuries take on individuals and families. With more than 300 years of combined experience, our personal injury lawyers have handled virtually every type of case imaginable. We are here to protect your rights, pursue justice, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been harmed in Gothenburg, NE, or surrounding communities, you can schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us at (402) 241-5020 or complete our online contact form today.

What Our Gothenburg Personal Injury Lawyers Can Do for You

Choosing a personal injury attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make after an accident. You need someone who knows the law, understands your situation, and will prioritize your well-being over everything else.

When you trust us with your case, here is what you can expect:

  • A free case review where we listen carefully to your story
  • A thorough investigation that includes collecting reports, medical records, and expert testimony
  • Negotiation with insurance companies that often try to pay less than what you are owed
  • A personalized strategy designed to maximize your recovery
  • Open communication throughout the process so you always know where your case stands
  • Trial-ready attorneys who will not hesitate to take your case to court if settlement negotiations fail

Our approach is simple but effective: every client deserves honesty, respect, and relentless advocacy.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle in Gothenburg, NE

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Highways and county roads around Gothenburg see steady traffic from cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even recreational vehicles. Unfortunately, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury in Dawson County and beyond.

Our attorneys handle all types of vehicle-related crashes, including:

  • Car accidents caused by distracted or reckless drivers
  • Truck accidents involving semi-trailers that pass through Nebraska highways
  • Motorcycle accidents where riders face disproportionate risks
  • ATV and moped accidents common in rural and recreational areas
  • Boat accidents that can occur on Nebraska’s lakes and rivers

We know how to investigate complex crash scenes, identify liable parties, and pursue the full value of your claim.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

Cyclists and pedestrians are particularly vulnerable when motorists fail to share the road responsibly. Even a low-speed collision can result in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or worse. Whether your accident happened while crossing the street in town or biking on a rural road, we will work to hold negligent drivers accountable. Safety laws exist for a reason, and when they are ignored, our firm steps in to protect the injured.

Workers’ Compensation

If you are injured on the job in Gothenburg, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits typically cover medical care, wage replacement, and vocational rehabilitation. But employers and insurers do not always make the process easy. Disputes over eligibility, benefit amounts, or treatment plans are common. Our personal injury attorneys help injured employees navigate the claims process and ensure they are treated fairly. In cases where a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer, also contributed to the accident, we can pursue additional compensation through a separate personal injury claim.

Burn Injuries

Burns can occur in house fires, workplace incidents, or accidents involving chemicals and defective products. They often require extensive medical care, including surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term therapy. The pain and psychological trauma can be just as devastating as the physical injury. Our lawyers understand the long road to recovery and work tirelessly to secure damages for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and the lasting impact burns have on quality of life.

Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

Few injuries are as life-changing as those involving the brain or spinal cord. Victims may face paralysis, cognitive impairments, memory loss, or personality changes. These injuries not only affect the individual but also alter family dynamics and financial stability. Our legal team collaborates with medical experts, life care planners, and vocational specialists to calculate the true cost of such injuries, ensuring clients have the resources they need for ongoing care and support.

Wrongful Death

The loss of a loved one is one of life’s greatest hardships. When that loss is caused by negligence or recklessness, the pain is compounded by anger and unanswered questions. We handle wrongful death claims with compassion and determination, helping families pursue financial compensation for funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering. Although no amount of money can replace a loved one, these claims provide accountability and financial stability during a time of grief.

Defective Product-Related Injuries

Consumers place trust in manufacturers to produce safe products, but defective items make their way to market all too often. Whether it is a faulty vehicle part, unsafe machinery, or a dangerous household product, defective items can cause catastrophic harm. Our attorneys pursue product liability claims against manufacturers, distributors, and retailers who fail to protect consumers. These cases not only compensate victims but also encourage companies to prioritize safety.

Medical Malpractice

Doctors and healthcare professionals are held to strict standards, but mistakes still happen. Misdiagnoses, surgical errors, medication mix-ups, and birth injuries can leave patients with permanent consequences. Medical malpractice claims are complex and require skilled attorneys who understand both medicine and law. At Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, our experience allows us to carefully evaluate these cases and pursue justice for those harmed by medical negligence.

Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises. Slippery floors, icy walkways, broken steps, and poor lighting are all hazards that can lead to serious falls. Injuries from slip-and-fall accidents often include fractures, head trauma, and back injuries. Our team investigates whether property owners failed in their responsibility to maintain safe conditions and helps victims recover damages under premises liability law.

How Nebraska’s Shared Fault Rule Impacts Your Claim

Nebraska uses a modified comparative negligence rule. Under this system, your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you are deemed 20 percent responsible for your injuries, your recovery will be reduced by 20 percent. However, if you are 50 percent or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.

Because insurance companies often use fault allocation to minimize payouts, having an experienced personal injury lawyer to protect your interests is essential. We understand how to counter these strategies and fight for your fair share.

Types of Damages Available in Gothenburg, NE Personal Injury Cases

Compensation in personal injury cases typically falls into two categories: economic and non-economic damages. Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to recovery for:

  • Medical expenses, including surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation
  • Lost income and reduced earning potential
  • Property damage costs
  • Pain and suffering, covering both physical and emotional hardship
  • Loss of enjoyment of life and the ability to participate in meaningful activities
  • Loss of consortium or companionship for spouses and family members

Our attorneys work to document and calculate all damages so that no part of your loss is overlooked.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury in Gothenburg, NE

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Nebraska?

In most cases, you have four years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions. For medical malpractice cases, the statute of limitations is two years. Claims involving government agencies may also have unique deadlines. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from recovering damages, so it is important to consult a personal injury attorney quickly to ensure your rights are preserved and your case is filed on time.

What should I bring to my first meeting with a Gothenburg personal injury lawyer?

When meeting with an attorney, the more documentation you can provide, the stronger your case will be. Items that are particularly helpful include:

  • Medical records and bills
  • Police or accident reports
  • Photos of injuries or the accident scene
  • Witness contact information
  • Insurance paperwork

Even if you do not have everything, bring what you can. Your attorney can help collect additional records as the case progresses.

How much is my personal injury case worth?

The value of a personal injury case depends on many factors. The extent of your injuries, the amount of medical treatment you require, and whether you can return to work all play a role. Other considerations include property damage, long-term disabilities, and the emotional toll the injury has taken on your life. While no attorney can guarantee a specific dollar amount, an experienced personal injury lawyer will carefully calculate both economic and non-economic damages to pursue the maximum compensation available. Each case is unique, and a full evaluation is the only way to determine potential value.

What types of damages are available in a personal injury claim?

Compensation varies by case but often includes both economic and non-economic damages such as:

  • Medical costs and rehabilitation expenses
  • Lost wages and future earning potential
  • Property damage repair or replacement
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of companionship or consortium

Your attorney will evaluate your case carefully to ensure all damages are identified and pursued.

How soon should I contact a lawyer after an accident in Gothenburg?

It is always recommended to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident. Acting quickly allows your attorney to collect evidence before it disappears, speak with witnesses while their memories are still fresh, and handle insurance companies on your behalf. The sooner you have legal representation, the less likely you are to be pressured into accepting a settlement that does not reflect the true cost of your injuries. Prompt action often makes a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.

Contact Our Gothenburg, NE Personal Injury Attorneys Today

You should not have to face the aftermath of an accident alone. The personal injury attorneys at Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, LLC, are here to provide the guidance, advocacy, and support you need. We represent clients in Gothenburg and surrounding communities across Nebraska, including Ogallala, McCook, Valentine, and Auburn, always keeping your best interests at the center of every decision.

Our consultations are free and come with no obligation. This is your opportunity to learn about your options, ask questions, and decide if we are the right firm for you.

If you or a loved one has been harmed due to negligence, contact our personal injury lawyers today. Call (402) 241-5020 or fill out our online form. We are available 24/7 to help you pursue justice and fair compensation.