Life may have been everything you envisioned, from a lovely family and a successful career to a vibrant social life, only for a car accident to everything. Serious injuries could mean the end of your once promising career and make it impossible to interact with friends and family like you used to. It may never be the same again.
In such a case, it is only right and fair that you are compensated for the harm or loss suffered from the accident. Understanding the damages you can claim will help ensure you get what you deserve in compensation. Here is what you need to know.
Compensatory damages explained
Compensation after a car accident is supposed to make you whole again like you were before the crash. Therefore, you can claim a wide range of damages depending on the seriousness of your injuries.
Compensatory damages are broadly classified into two: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover the direct financial losses arising from your injuries. They include:
- Present and future medical expenses
- The cost of aftercare or everyday assistance where necessary
- Lost wages
- A diminished earning capacity if your injuries reduce your ability to earn future income
- Property damage
On the other hand, non-economic damages cover the non-pecuniary harm you suffered. You may have endured emotional and mental anguish, disfigurement or physical pain and suffering after the crash. Similarly, the injuries may negatively impact your quality of life or strain relations with your loved ones. These are just a few examples of the non-economic damages you can claim.
Protecting your legal rights after a car accident
It helps to have experienced legal representation after a car accident. That way, you will be sure of an informed assessment of your claim, which will help identify the damages you are entitled to. Remember, your settlement is pegged on these damages, and you cannot afford to leave some of them out of your claim.