Victims of car accidents may be hospitalized, lose work and suffer vehicle damage. A car insurance claim may cover some of a victim’s financial losses after a car accident. However, compensation from a car insurance claim may not cover all of a victim’s losses. As a result, the victim may have to sue the negligent driver for compensation.
While filing a personal injury claim against a negligent driver, it is important to understand what type of damages can be recovered. Victims may be able to recover economic and non-economic damages. Here is what you should know:
Recovering tangible damages
Economic damages refer to any kind of tangible financial loss. Tangible financial losses can include bills, receipts and invoices. Some of the most common forms of economic damages include:
- Medical bills for hospital stays, rehabilitation, surgery, medical equipment, medication and long-term medical care.
- Lost wages after being unable to work because of injuries and future income loss as a result of disabilities.
- Property repair or replacement costs for vehicle or electronic damages.
- Funeral expenses after a wrongful death, such as cremation or burial costs.
Victims of car accidents may be able to recover full compensation for economic damages. It is important to gather any documentation of economic damages when filing a personal injury claim.
Recovering intangible damages
Non-economic damages refer to any kind of intangible loss that may have been caused by a personal injury. Intangible losses can include emotional turmoil, loss of enjoyment from life, loss of companionship, depression, anxiety or pain and suffering. Even though money often can not compensate for a victim’s pain and suffering after a car accident, they may still be entitled to compensation.
Professional legal guidance can help victims recover damages after a car accident.