Medical Expenses
Medical expenses after a car crash can be significant. If you've been injured, you may incur hospital bills, doctor's visits, and other medical treatment costs. These expenses can be covered by your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage or your health insurance. If you don't have health insurance, you may be able to negotiate with the at-fault driver's insurance company to have them cover your medical costs.
For medical expenses to be covered, they must be considered "reasonably necessary." This means that the costs must be related to your injuries and be necessary for your treatment. For example, your medical expenses would likely be covered if you go to the ER after the crash to treat a broken arm. However, if you go to the ER and are treated for a cold, the treatment will not be covered.
If you have been injured in a collision, it is vital to speak to an experienced car accident lawyer in Opelousas. A legal expert can help you learn more about building a convincing case.
Property Damage
If your car has been damaged in an accident, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company to have them pay for the repairs. If the damage is significant and your automobile is totalled, you may be able to receive compensation for its value.
To receive compensation for your property damage, it helps to have collision coverage on your insurance policy. Collision coverage requirements can change depending on your state. Even if it is not required, it is a good idea to have because it will cover the damages to your car regardless of who is at fault for the collision.
Lost Wages
If you've been injured in an accident and cannot work, you may be able to recover lost wages. This can be especially helpful if you cannot work for an extended period. To recover lost wages, it will be helpful to have a loss of income coverage on your insurance policy. This coverage is optional in most states, but it is worth considering adding it to your plan as a safety net.
Pain And Suffering
Pain after a car accident can be significant. However, it can be challenging to place a monetary value on the experience. This is because pain and suffering are subjective, and there is no clear way to measure them. Some insurance companies use a multiplier to calculate pain and suffering. For example, they may take your medical expenses and multiply them by two or three to calculate pain and suffering. Other insurance companies may use a per diem method, which means they will give you a certain amount of money each day you are in pain. In some states, you can only recover these damages if you have suffered a serious injury, such as a permanent disability or disfigurement.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault driver for their actions. They are typically only awarded in cases where the responsible driver was grossly negligent or committed an intentional act. For example, if the at-fault driver was driving under the influence, they may be ordered to pay punitive damages. This is typically only awarded in cases where the at-fault driver's actions were particularly egregious.
Rebuild Your Life
As you can see, a few different types of damages may be available to you after a car accident. The type of damages you can recover will depend on the specific facts of your case. Consult with your lawyer and follow their guidance to receive a higher award.
