Claiming Damages for a Car Accident Injury

When you’re involved in a car accident, you may be able to claim damages if it was not your fault. In some cases, the injury will be minor, while other times, it may be serious and life-changing. You may be surprised to find out what qualifies in a car accident injury claim...

Claiming Damages for a Car Accident Injury

When you’re involved in a car accident, you may be able to claim damages if it was not your fault. In some cases, the injury will be minor, while other times, it may be serious and life-changing. You may be surprised to find out what qualifies in a car accident injury claim.

Medical Treatment

One of the most important damages to include in a claim is for the expenses associated with medical treatment. While most people know that this qualifies in a car accident claim, they may not think to include various services. Some of these services include the following:

  • Emergency medical treatment
  • Hospital stay
  • Surgery costs
  • Other medical services such as anesthesia, X-rays, and digital imaging
  • Medications and other treatments
  • Medical equipment such as wheelchairs and crutches
  • Physical and occupational therapy
  • Emotional therapy or psychiatric evaluations
  • In-home services

In addition, a claim can cover the cost of altering your home for a permanent disability. For example, it may include the expense of installing a ramp for a wheelchair or adding grab bars in the shower.

Lost Wages

If the injury is serious, you may be off from work for several weeks or months. In the most severe cases, you may be unable to return to work at all. In these situations, you will lose out on the income you need to pay your living expenses. You may be able to include this loss of income in your claim. You will be required to prove that the injury prevents you from returning to work or earning money in another occupation.

General Damages

While not directly related to the actual injury, certain damages are the result of the accident and injuries sustained. For example, this may include pain and suffering, which includes ongoing pain or the inability to enjoy life the way you did before. It can include emotional distress and even a loss in your relationships because of the injury. This is a complex area and usually requires an attorney to help you determine the value that can be placed on these damages.

Punitive Damages

In some states, you may be able to receive punitive damages for the accident. These are designed as punishment for the responsible party. They are often seen in accidents where the driver was impaired or other situations where they acted in a careless or reckless manner.

The amount and type of damages you may claim in a case will vary based on each unique situation. It is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can advise you on what your claim is worth.


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