A car accident can negatively impact your life in different ways. From the injuries you suffer to the interruptions you may experience. When filing a case against the other driver, you can claim these damages.
Here are three of them:
1. Medical expenses
A car accident can cause minor injuries, such as cuts or bruises, or severe ones, such as a traumatic brain injury or permanent disability. It’s crucial to seek medical assistance after an accident, even if you believe you are not hurt. Some injuries may not be noticeable until a few days later, or adrenaline may mask your pain. A doctor can help you spot injuries and determine their severity.
Getting medical help can result in numerous expenses, including ambulance fees, treatment costs (consultations, tests and drugs), assistive devices (crutches, wheelchairs, hearing aids and so on), and in-home care.
Besides these upfront costs, you may incur ongoing ones. For example, if you suffer permanent disability. Your doctor should help you calculate the likely costs of the ongoing treatment.
2. Lost wages
When you are injured, you may be unable to go to work for some time or may need to change occupations. And even when you return to work, you may miss some days/hours to attend physical therapy sessions or follow-up appointments. You can claim lost wages or earning capacity when filing a case against the other driver.
3. Pain and suffering
Pain and suffering is a non-economic damage. It’s the physical and mental anguish you experience due to your injuries. Examples include physical pain, loss of enjoyment of life, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you are injured in a car accident, you should obtain more information about the damages you incur to receive just compensation.