What Damages Can I Seek After a Motor Vehicle Accident Occurs?
In the unfortunate event of a car crash, it is crucial to be aware of the damages that can be claimed. While every accident is unique, the law permits compensation for a range of injuries and losses, and it’s important to understand what you may be eligible to receive financial compensation for.
Hiring a lawyer as soon after your accident as possible is one of the best ways to ensure no damage goes without financial reimbursement and to navigate the legal process in a way that’s most beneficial to your claim. Always remember that you deserve to seek the rightful and maximum amount of compensation you deserve and that no matter what, you should never have to pay out of pocket for your damages.
Below, we’ll go over the various types of damages that can be pursued following a motor vehicle accident so that you can be better informed through the course of your suit.
Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
In personal injury cases, the legal system recognizes two primary categories of damages: economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic damages refer to the quantifiable financial losses that result from an accident or injury. This includes expenses such as medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and future medical costs or loss of earning capacity. These damages can be easily calculated based on actual expenses and monetary losses incurred.
On the other hand, non-economic damages encompass the subjective, non-monetary losses that are more challenging to quantify. They include things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and the impact on relationships or mental well-being. Determining the value of non-economic damages often involves subjective assessments, considering factors like the severity of injuries, the impact on daily life, and the long-term effects on the individual’s overall well-being.
Common Car Accident Damages in a Personal Injury Case
Automobile injury accidents have several common types of damages that victims are eligible to file suit over, including:
Medical Expenses
One of the most fundamental types of damages victims of car accidents can seek reimbursement for are medical expenses incurred due to the crash. This includes costs related to emergency medical care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatments.
To stand the best chance at recovering your medical damages, it’s critical to document all medical expenses thoroughly to present a comprehensive claim.
Property Damage
If your vehicle or any other personal property was damaged in the accident, you have the right to receive payment for the costs of repairing or replacing it. This includes the actual cost of repairs, any reduction in value, and, in cases of complete loss, the property’s fair market value at the time of the accident.
Lost Wages and Income
If you were forced to miss work or your injuries resulted in a temporary or permanent inability to work, you may be entitled to seek compensation for lost wages and income. This encompasses the wages you would have earned during your recovery period and future earning capacity that has been impacted due to the accident.
Pain and Suffering
You are entitled to pain and suffering damages if you have suffered physical or emotional distress due to an accident. These damages are designed to compensate you for the pain, discomfort, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity of your injuries, their impact on your daily life, and any long-term effects on your well-being.
Emotional Distress and Mental Anguish
In addition to pain and suffering, you may be eligible to seek damages for emotional distress and mental anguish resulting from the accident. This includes psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and other emotional injuries caused by the accident and its aftermath.
Loss of Consortium
If the accident has caused strain on your relationship with your partner or spouse, they may have the right to seek compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, support, and intimacy due to your injuries or disability from the accident.
Conclusion
After a motor vehicle accident, understanding the types of damages you can seek is crucial in pursuing fair compensation for your losses.
From medical expenses and property damage to lost wages and pain and suffering, exploring your options with the help of a skilled personal injury attorney can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Remember, each case is unique, so consult with a lawyer to assess your specific circumstances and navigate the legal process with confidence.
