If you were injured in an accident, it’s important to understand the types of damages you can request. This will help ensure you receive the appropriate compensation. Different types of damages may be available depending on the circumstances of your case. Knowing your options can help you make informed decisions about seeking compensation.
In legal terms, damages are categorized into two main types: economic and non-economic. Each plays a vital role in the compensation process, but they cover distinctly different aspects of your losses.
What Are Economic Damages?
Economic damages are tangible losses that have a specific monetary value attached. These are out-of-pocket expenses that can be easily quantified and typically include:
- Medical expenses: Costs associated with medical treatment, including hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care required due to the injury.
- Lost wages: Money paid to make up for income lost from not working or earning less due to injury.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for any damage to your property, such as your vehicle in a car accident.
- Other financial losses: Any other measurable costs incurred as a result of the injury, such as home modifications for severe injuries.
What Are Non-Economic Damages?
Non-economic damages compensate for losses that do not have a specific monetary value. These losses greatly affect the victim’s life. These include:
- Emotional distress and mental anguish: Compensation for the psychological impact of the injury, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Loss of enjoyment of life is when you can’t do things you used to enjoy because of an injury. This can include hobbies and other activities. Damages are awarded for this loss.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort endured as a result of the injury.
- Loss of consortium happens when an injury affects a person’s relationship with their spouse. Compensation can be sought for the loss of companionship.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help with Claiming Damages?
Determining the value of both economic and non-economic damages can be complex. A personal injury attorney is instrumental in navigating these complexities. They help by:
- Recording and adding up all money lost: Collecting all important bills and documents to make sure no financial details are missed.
- Evaluating non-economic impacts: Assessing the emotional and psychological damages and quantifying them into a monetary value that reflects the severity of your suffering.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to make sure you get a fair settlement for both financial and emotional losses. Insurance companies may try to pay less for emotional damages.
Why Contact Grabb & Durando for Personal Injury Claims?
If you have a personal injury case and want to know what damages you can get, contact Grabb & Durando for help. Our Tucson attorneys work hard to make sure you get full compensation for all your losses, both financial and emotional. Book a free consultation to talk about your case and receive personalized legal advice from experts.
