If your car accident was more than a minor fender bender, you will likely need the help of an experienced car accident attorney. The right lawyer will fight to protect your rights in court and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Car accidents can cause medical bills, lost wages, and much pain and suffering. Your attorney will know exactly how much your case is worth.
Damages
Several expenses can result from your car accident. These include medical bills for treatment you received after the crash and future care if your injuries are permanent. You can also claim lost wages if you miss work due to injuries.
Non-economic damages include emotional distress and physical pain and suffering. These are harder to calculate but can impact your quality of life. An expert automobile accident lawyer understands how to account for non-economic damages and fights for the full amount you are entitled to.
If your automobile was damaged in the collision, you can sue the at-fault motorist for property damage. This is distinct from any bodily injury claim you submit. A car accident lawyer can assist you in determining the worth of your property and arguing for compensation to cover the expenses of replacement or repair. They can also help you file claims against governmental entities responsible for maintaining public roads if their negligence contributed to your accident.
Medical bills
Medical bills can add up quickly following a car accident. Serious injuries often require surgery, hospitalizations, and ongoing treatment. The costs can also include prescription drugs, rehabilitation therapy, and equipment needed for daily living. Many drivers add med pay coverage to their auto insurance policies to cover healthcare expenses above and beyond their health plan deductible.
Keeping track of all the bills and expenses related to a crash can be overwhelming. A car accident lawyer can help to manage the accounts, seek compensation from the responsible party, and ultimately receive a fair settlement. Moreover, just because you feel fine after an accident and the damage to your vehicle seems minimal does not mean you do not need to speak with a lawyer. Some injuries may take weeks or months to manifest, and you could incur future medical costs you did not foresee or expect. A lawyer can review the evidence and build a strong case for you.
Lost wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to lost wages compensation. This includes money you lose by missing work due to injury and any overtime or tips you would have earned.
Calculating lost wages is usually straightforward, assuming you return to work after the accident. A letter from your doctor describing your injuries and how they affect your ability to work is necessary, along with a copy of your most recent paycheck. If you are self-employed, submitting invoices, profit and loss statements, bank records, and tax returns are necessary to establish your lost income.
However, when an accident leaves you with permanent or long-term disability and diminished earning capacity, calculating lost wages becomes more complex. If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side. They can help you calculate your lost income and fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
Pain and suffering
Pain and suffering are more difficult than financial losses, which are easy to quantify in terms of a dollar amount. This catch-all term refers to the non-financial losses you suffered in your crash, such as a permanent injury or emotional trauma.
The insurance company will review various evidence to determine the extent of your injuries, such as medical bills and written formal diagnoses. Photographs and physical proof can also prove that your injuries are severe, but capturing your feelings of anxiety or chronic pain in photos is much more difficult.
Car accident lawyers have extensive experience negotiating with insurers to ensure you receive a fair settlement. In addition, they can take your case to court if necessary, ensuring you get the money you deserve for your losses. If you’re unsure whether you need a lawyer for your case, contact an attorney and schedule a consultation. They can assess your situation and recommend the next steps.
