The goal of compensatory damages is to assign a monetary value to each area where the accident’s effects were felt by you. Although no amount of money can make up for the harm you have endured, juries take all forms of damages into account when deciding how much compensation to award in a personal injury case. Actual damages pay for costs like property damage, medical bills, and lost wages that are directly related to the accident. The categories of general damages include pain and suffering.
Many people agree to an out of court settlement that is not in their best interests because they are unaware of their rights as accident victims. We strongly suggest speaking with an accident lawyer Springfield MA for advice on auto accident claims before you settle or decide not to file a claim at all.
Understanding Particular Damages
After a car accident, you might have unforeseen expenses. You might incur expenses for medical care, property damage, and other losses. Fortunately, you might be able to file an accident claim for damages. If another person’s negligence resulted in your injuries in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation by making an insurance claim or bringing a civil lawsuit. You can get help from a personal injury attorney with your claim. Find out what damages you might be able to recover following a car accident.
Medical Costs
Medical costs while recovering from the accident are the main concern for the majority of people involved in auto accidents. Medical costs include visits to the doctor and the hospital, the ongoing cost of specialized equipment, painkillers, physical therapy, and any other costs related to health care incurred as a direct result of the accident. Your settlement offer needs to account for future medical costs if you anticipate needing long-term care.
Lost Wages
Receiving compensation for lost work time is the other main issue in personal injury cases. Even if you have enough paid time off (vacation and sick leave) to cover your income while you’re recovering, you shouldn’t be forced to use it when another driver’s negligence led to your injuries. All days missed due to your injuries should be compensated for, as well as travel time to medical appointments. The lost wages portion of your settlement will likely be higher if your injuries prevent you from carrying out your previous job responsibilities or from returning to work at all.
Real Estate Damage
Property damage compensation in a personal injury case typically includes both the cost of renting a car and the cost of repairing your car. In the event that your car is a total loss, your settlement ought to cover the cost of a replacement car. The insurance provider for the other driver will be challenged by your car accident lawyer to demonstrate that they are providing you with a fair offer in this regard.
Pain, Suffering, and Mental Anguish
Auto accident victims are entitled to compensation under the law for their physical suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and missed opportunities. In contrast to mental anguish and distress, which also take into account non-physical suffering, compensation for pain and suffering is based on the severity of the physical injuries sustained as a result of the accident. Loss of consortium refers to the inability to interact with friends and family in the same way as before the accident, and lost opportunities go beyond lost wages to make up for your inability to pursue personal or professional goals or hobbies.
Conclusion
You have already endured enough pain as a result of someone else’s careless driving. As soon as possible following the accident, make an appointment for a case review with an auto accident lawyer. Although compensation cannot be guaranteed, a free initial consultation with an attorney for auto accident claims can assist you in determining whether you should move forward with a personal injury claim.