Types of Compensation Awarded in a Personal Injury Case
The goal of any personal injury claim is to recover compensation equal to the losses the accident caused. Some of these losses are economic, and it is easy to calculate their value. On the other hand, some are not so clear-cut, but accident victims are still entitled to seek compensation for their worth.
Below we have described the economic, non-economic, and punitive damages individuals can seek in personal injury cases.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to the financial losses suffered by an injured party. These damages are quantifiable and can be proven through documentation and evidence.
Examples include:
- Medical expenses for hospital visits, treatments, procedures, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and medication.
- Lost income that results from an inability to work, including past and future earnings.
- Property damage to a vehicle or any other item of value.
- The cost of hiring someone to perform household tasks such as cleaning or maintenance.
- Travel expenses to obtain adequate medical care for injuries.
- Funeral or burial expenses in cases where a person died because of injuries they sustained in an accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are intangible losses that are sometimes difficult to quantify. Pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional anguish, loss of consortium, disfigurement, and scarring could qualify as non-economic damages. Because these things are subjective, a personal injury lawyer must make a compelling case for why a person ought to receive them. This is one of many reasons to hire an experienced attorney who has demonstrated the ability to skillfully advocate for their clients.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the at-fault party was intentionally reckless or malicious, a judge can order the party to pay punitive damages.
What to Do If You Have Been in an Accident in LaGrange?
If you have been involved in an accident and are considering filing an injury suit, you want to take steps to protect your rights and better your chance of a successful outcome.
These steps include:
- Getting medical attention right away. It is essential for your health and the viability of your case. A doctor’s examination of your injuries can be foundational evidence.
- Keeping a record of your injuries, expenses, and other pertinent information. After the accident, take photos or videos of the scene. Do the same for your injuries and document how they affect your life in the following weeks, months, or even years. If you were hurt at work or on the premises of a business, request to fill out and submit a formal report of the incident. Keep receipts for all expenses you incur because of your injuries.
- Do not immediately accept an insurance company’s cash settlement offer. Insurance companies aim to pay as little money as possible for accident claims. A provider’s offer may not reflect the money you need to recover and move forward.
- Retaining a trusted attorney. They can guide you through complex legal processes, provide valuable insights and advice, and negotiate on your behalf. It is possible to go it alone, but without the know-how and experience of a personal injury attorney, you may be at a disadvantage.
Since 2014, Morrison & Hughes Law has served thousands of clients and earned a 95% success rate across all practice areas. When you have been hurt and need someone to fight for you, turn to our LaGrange personal injury attorneys. Getting started with us is simple. Reach out to our firm, and we will schedule a convenient time to speak with you about your situation and how we might help. We have Spanish-speaking staff to support our diverse clientele.
Call (706) 710-4230 or send a message online.
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