Car accidents can be expensive, even when you’re the victim. Depending on the severity of your injuries and how significant your property damage is, bills can quickly run high. Insurance companies may cover some of the cost, but those who have suffered major losses to their health or finances may be entitled to compensation that’s not readily offered, like a lawyer such as a car accident lawyer from a law firm like Greenspan & Greenspan P.C would advise.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call 434-817-3100
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the simplest and most common form of compensation available because it’s easily traced through financial records. These damages include property damage, medical expenses, and lost wages. You can be compensated for the cost of repairs to your car, the repair or replacement of any damaged property within the car, and the cost of any medical bills related to the treatment of your injuries that you sustained from this accident. Typically, lost wages refer to paychecks missed due to being unable to work, but you can also claim the loss of paid time off or other benefits.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify but may still be available to you in the form of pain and suffering damages. These damages can refer to both physical and emotional health. Physically, you may newly suffer from headaches, neck pain, or a trauma that will require lifelong treatment. Pain and suffering can also refer to any emotional anguish that resulted from the auto accident, such as post-traumatic stress, insomnia, loss of enjoyment in life, and loss of consortium. However, these things don’t have a set monetary value. It’s up to your lawyer to negotiate a fair price for any non-economic damages you’ve incurred.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault driver rather than compensate you. However, judges may award punitive damages to deter other drivers from engaging in the negligent behavior that caused the accident, such as texting while driving or running a red light. These damages are the most difficult to prove, as you need to establish that there was recklessness or intent behind the at-fault driver’s actions. If the court accepts, you’ll receive the value of those damages in the form of additional compensation.
The types of compensation you can claim completely depend on your case, and an expert attorney can assess your situation and elucidate your options, especially if you decide to pursue a lawsuit. If you’ve been in an accident due to another person’s negligence and are unsure about what compensation you can receive, don’t hesitate to contact a car accident lawyer.
Call 434-817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
