Getting the maximum amount of money, you’re entitled to after an auto accident is important when someone else’s negligence has turned your life upside down. You’ll receive maximum compensation if it is determined you were not at-fault for the accident. Achieving this accomplishment is easier when a personal injury lawyer is representing you in the case. Personal injury attorneys who focus on automotive accidents understand the hardships you’re enduring after an accident, and work hard to ensure that you get the most money possible for your injuries. Although the responsible party’s insurance company is likely to offer a settlement amount, accepting the offer is never a good idea, unless you’ve spoken with an attorney beforehand. Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and their offer is likely to be small in comparison to the actual amount of damages that you might be entitled to after your accident.
Types of Auto Accident Damages
Unbeknownst to many involved in auto accidents, actual damages as well as punitive damages may be awarded in such a case. Punitive damages include anything that’s caused gross negligence to the driver or passengers of the vehicle, or when acts of malice are proven.
It is best to hire a competent accident lawyer is you wish to file a lawsuit and seek recovery for any of these damages. Attempting to file a lawsuit in hopes of recovering such damages may be a bigger task than you anticipated, so never try to go it alone when great attorneys are out there to help. If you’re involved in a no-fault accident, the following are damages that you may be entitled to receive.
Medical Bills: If you’ve visited an Emergency Department, doctor, specialist, or other health care provider due to injuries or problems sustained after a crash, you may be entitled to receive compensation for those expenses. If you have proof of future medical care necessity, you may be able to receive money for estimated dues as well. Some of the types of medical bills that may arise after an accident include:
– Emergency Room fees
– Ambulance fees
– Doctor’s fees
– Hospital room fees
– Physical therapy
– Permanent disabilities
This is not a complete list of the medical bills that you may seek compensation for after an accident. Your lawyer is the best person to consult for additional information concerning the medical bills covered after an auto accident.
Lost Wages: If the injuries sustained in the accident have left you unable to work, that doesn’t stop the bills from coming in. If you are the bread winner of the family, it certainly causes a strain on life as you live. But, with a personal injury attorney by your side, recovering lost wages is possible, giving you hope when the day is done. You’ll be able to recoup lost wages as well as any future anticipated lost wages in your auto accident lawsuit.
Property Damage: Property damage includes damages to your vehicle and personal property, as well as property owned by others, but damaged as the result of the collision. This includes homes, fences, retail establishments, etc.
Pain & Suffering: Pain and suffering is oftentimes a part of life for an accident victim. It is stressful and emotional when you’re unable to perform the tasks that you are accustomed to performing. In such cases, an attorney may be able to help you recover compensation for pain and suffering, so long as evidence is presented proving the distress caused.
How much Money will you Receive?
No two accident cases are created the same, therefore, the amount of compensation you’ll be awarded varies based upon the specific criteria of your case. Speaking with an accident lawyer for a free consultation is the best way to learn the actual amount of money you may be entitled to receive. Consultations are provided without obligation, and help better determine the next steps to take in your accident case. If it is determined that you have a case, the attorney will receive compensation only if he wins your case.
Several factors determine the amount of compensation you’ll receive in your case. This includes the extent of your losses. Some losses, such as medical bills, are easy to evaluate because proof is there. Other losses aren’t so easy to prove, and so a decision of the compensation amount is determined after extent of liability and damages is evaluated.