A Checklist of Claims Your Car Accident Lawyer Could Pursue for You
While money cannot undo the pain and disruption caused by a car accident, it can help ease the financial strain. Minor or severe injuries can interfere with your career, relationships, and future plans, not to mention your overall health. The immediate costs, such as medical bills and property damage, can feel burdensome while dealing with the accident’s aftermath. An experienced lawyer can work to support you during this challenging time. Understanding the types of claims your lawyer might pursue on your behalf can help you better navigate the legal process and fair compensation.
Economic Damages
The Following are some of the tangible losses you might incur directly due to your accident. Although every case is unique, this is some of what you can expect your lawyer to pursue for you:
- ER treatment
- X-rays
- MRIs
- Surgery
- Hospital stays
- Follow-up treatment
- Medications
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages and/or reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Replacement of property lost in the crash
Proving Economic Damages
Economic damages are easier to prove if you keep your receipts and invoices to things like:
- Medical bills
- Medication prescriptions
- Future medical cost estimates
- Counselling services
- Therapy invoices
- Documentation from a vocational expert if claiming reduced earning capacity
- Pay stubs before and after the crash
- Repair shop estimates or invoices
Non-Economic Damages
One can’t attach a monetary value to intangible losses, but they significantly affect your quality of life. Some include:
- Mental or emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
Proving Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more challenging to prove because they are subjective and vary from individual to individual. However, with the help of a skilled attorney, it’s possible. To aid in proving non-economic damages:
- Keep a journal documenting your physical and emotional struggles; even the most mundane details can strengthen your case.
- Request therapists or counsellors to share testimonies/ notes supporting your claim of emotional distress.
- Share specific examples of activities you can no longer participate in. Let your family and friends confirm any lifestyle changes you might have.
- Use testimony from your spouse or partner about the impact on your relationship.
Punitive Damages
In certain cases, your attorney may also seek punitive damages. In contrast to compensatory damages designed to reimburse you for your tangible losses, punitive damages penalize the at-fault party for especially reckless or malicious conduct. These claims typically arise in situations where it can be demonstrated that the responsible party acted with gross negligence or willful disregard for the safety of others.
What if I Have Unusual Costs?
Every car crash is unique. Sometimes, you might have incurred other costs not listed here. For example, a driver transporting perishable or delicate goods could face substantial losses if delays or damage occur due to even a minor collision. Working with a skilled attorney is extremely important in such unique situations to ensure you recover the full extent of your damages.
Contact a Columbus Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contact our office today to discuss your case.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contact our trusted Columbus car accident lawyer at the law office of Brian G. Miller CO., L.P.A, to discuss your case and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
