Car accidents are expensive and stressful. In the following days and weeks, you have to fix your car, make sure you are healthy, call out of work, etc. Because of the unfair burden that the costs associated with a car accident can cause a victim, they can pursue legal action to collect damages from the liable party. Both economic and non-economic damages can be considered when calculating compensation. Work with our skilled New York accident lawyers to discuss your case and begin the process of filing a claim or lawsuit.
Property Damage
If the other driver is found responsible for the accident you may be able to file a claim with their insurance provider to collect compensation for your property damage. Depending on the severity of the accident you could have the following damages.
- Cracked windshield
- Shattered windows
- Paint scratches or chips
- Rear end damage
- Dents
- Damage to the hood
- Broken head or taillights
- Broken side mirrors
You should have the damage assessed and be given a quote to determine how much compensation it will take to cover the costs.
Medical Expenses
A minor car accident could result in whiplash or some bruising. However, more serious crashes can cause concussions, brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and more. It could take a lot of time and money to heal. You can collect compensation to cover medical expenses like ambulance fees, hospital visits, surgery costs, prescription medication, treatments, physical therapy, etc.
Pain and Suffering
You can also file for non-economic damages like mental or physical distress. The amount you can receive for pain and suffering will depend on how your suffering is evaluated, but generally the following can be taken into account.
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Development of sleep disorders
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
Using the help and experience of mental health professionals and medical doctors you can determine a reasonable dollar amount to assign to the suffering that you endured.
Lost Wages
The more severe your injury is the longer it will take to fully heal and recover. Depending on your career if you cannot move, go into the office, focus, etc. it could cause you to miss out on work for extended periods or even lose your job. This loss of income can negatively impact you and your family, damaging your financial situation. The money that you would have earned if you had been able to work can be included in your compensation.
Punitive Damages
While they are not always awarded, punitive damages can be ordered by the judge as a way to additionally penalize the negligent party and warn others not to behave in a similar way. They are usually issued when the defendant acted with severe recklessness, negligence, or malicious intent. If the driver was drunk driving, street racing, or traveling at excessive speeds you may be given punitive damages as a way to punish them.