Understanding Your Financial Damages After A Personal Injury

Posted on: 28 December 2022

Share

If you have been injured in an accident that was someone else's fault, you need to give careful thought to how much you're seeking in restitution. When you talk with a personal injury lawyer about filing a claim, he or she can help you understand the factors that you need to consider and what can contribute to the amount you're entitled to. While many people understand the concept behind the pain and suffering or punitive damage award, they don't always realize what makes up the economic damage portion. Here are some things to consider.

Your Medical Costs

The actual medical costs incurred for your treatment are part of your economic damage award. Keep all of the invoices and statements for your medical care, including emergency room visits, lab fees, specialist invoices, and even prescriptions. Your actual medical costs should be compensated in full. In fact, you should discuss your prognosis with your doctor to ensure that you account for ongoing costs until you are fully recovered.

Your Lost Earnings

When you're injured in an accident, you likely lose time at work because of your injury and the necessary recovery after the fact. You'll have to take time off for the initial recovery as well as follow-up doctor's appointments. In some cases, you might not be able to return to work because of the nature of your injury. Consider the amount of time you have lost from work and the wages you would have received for that time. If you are unable to return to work for some time, if at all, consider lost future wages as well.

Any Modifications To Your Home

In addition to the costs associated with your medical treatment and your time lost from work, you may incur costs to modify your home or your vehicle after the injury. This is especially true if you are in a wheelchair or paralyzed and need accommodations. This often includes costs for installing ramps, stair lifts, and hand controls on your vehicle. If you are facing long-term wheelchair use or are not expected to regain the use of your legs, make sure you account for those necessary modifications in your settlement.

Talk with a personal injury lawyer today for more help and information about how to account for your actual economic damages after your accident. The more you understand about the costs that you can seek restitution for, the easier it is to calculate your minimum claim settlement.