Injuries and mishaps can happen; they’re part of life. There are times, however, when another person could be responsible for these incidents. If you have gotten hurt due to someone else’s willful actions or negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Speaking to a personal injury lawyer like our friends at Cohen & Cohen is a good first step. Your legal counsel will review your case and explore your options of recovering damages. It is important to understand what damages are in these situations and what your rights are.
An Overview of Damages
There are two types of damages that a court would award in an injury or loss case. The first is compensatory damage, which compensates the plaintiff. There are also punitive damages, which intend to punish the wrongdoer and hold him or her accountable. The amount of money you would receive from these awards will vary due to the nature of your case, the severity of your injuries, and how the injuries are affecting your quality of life.
Medical Expenses
Suffering harm in an accident can range widely from a minor injury to something that causes death. Even non-life-threatening injuries can require extensive medical attention. The costs to provide this care can skyrocket, even with insurance coverage. Recovering damages will help pay for much, if not all, of these costs. Damages can include doctor’s office visits, hospital stays, treatments, medications, surgeries and rehabilitation. You may even be able to recover the costs of future medical care as a result of your injuries.
Lost Wages
In more serious accidents and incidents, the injuries may make it difficult or impossible to work. You may be able to sue for damages to recover the money you have lost at your job because of your inability to physically or mentally perform your duties. Seeking these damages is important if you do not have access to disability benefits or if you have exhausted them. Also, you may be able to recover damages for future lost earnings. Your attorney will help you determine what you would have earned had you not gotten hurt.
Mental Anguish and Related Damages
Many of the effects of an accident are not physical. An injury may cause emotional distress or trauma, impacting the quality of your life. Your condition may preclude you from enjoying certain activities or companionships.
If you have suffered an injury because of someone else’s actions, talk to an attorney. You can recover damages and have some peace of mind.
