If you have been injured or incurred property damage as a result of a car accident, you probably wonder how much compensation you are entitled to. Understanding how much compensation to expect can help you navigate an uncertain future. After all, you shouldn’t suffer in silence because of someone else’s negligence In addition to considering various websites and resources that can provide means of calculating compensation after a car accident, it is also advisable to seek the advice and guidance of a car accident lawyer. They can help you understand the factors that determine the amount of damages awarded in a claim and work to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Influential Factors
During your initial consultation with a car accident lawyer, they will review your evidence and identify the primary factors relevant to your claim. This is why it is crucial to keep thorough documentation of all evidence and to always be honest with your lawyer.Property Damage
Insurance companies and the court system treat property damage and injuries differently. This means that you can claim compensation for property damage and personal injury.Get an Estimate for Your Vehicle
If the accident damaged your vehicle, you will likely need to take it to a repair shop for an estimate. The insurance company will recommend the repair shop. While you are not required to use the insurance company’s preferred shop for the repairs, you must use it for the estimate. Once the repair shop has completed its estimate, it will share the results with the insurance company.Include Personal Property
When evaluating damages, you should include any personal property in the vehicle. Personal property could include cell phones, laptops, or other electronics damaged in the accident. Additionally, if you have any other personal property that was damaged or destroyed, make sure to include it in your claim.Injuries and Medical Treatment
Medical bills are often one of the most expensive aspects of a car accident. That is why you should keep a detailed record of your injuries and what you have done to alleviate them. Your car accident lawyer will evaluate your medical bills and use them during negotiations to demonstrate the severity of your accident.Common Injuries
Here are some common injuries that result from car accidents:- Fractures
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Whiplash
- Herniated discs
- Severe spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injury
- Nerve damage
- Paralysis
Medical Expenses
In addition to the injuries themselves, you may include expenses in your claim from:- Ambulance ride
- Emergency room bills
- Emergency medical care
- Surgeries and other procedures
- Hospitalization and related expenses
- Follow-up treatment
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Medication
- At-home medical equipment prescribed as a result of the accident
Future Medical Needs
Additionally, it is a good idea to anticipate future medical needs and include a projection in your claim. Consult your healthcare provider to get a reasonable idea of what future expenses might look like.Lost Income
If the accident caused you to miss work, you can likely include your lost income as part of your claim. This includes work missed due to recovery and work missed due to inhibitions resulting from the accident. Consult with your lawyer regarding the time you have missed at work. Similar to evaluating current and future medical expenses, you will want to include the time you have already missed alongside a projection of the time you will miss.Inability to Work
You may be able to include lost earnings in your claim if the car accident has left you unable to work or forced you to change industries. Again, consult with your lawyer, as this can differ depending on the specifics of your situation.Other Non-Economic Losses
In addition to physical injuries, lost wages, and property damages, you could receive compensation based on non-economic losses. When calculating non-economic losses, you need a lawyer who can calculate:- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium