What Compensation Might I Get in a Lawsuit Over My Car Accident?

You can recover compensation over a car accident to cover your lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.

When you’re involved in a collision, you may wonder if you’re in a position to make a claim for injuries, car damage, and other losses. To determine what compensation you might get in a lawsuit over your car accident, we will need to review the specific details of your case.

For example, the amount and type of compensation you’re eligible for will depend on the severity of your injuries and how the car accident affected your quality of life. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand the different types of damages available in a car accident claim. Our team will discuss your legal options with you during a free consultation.

Should You Sue After a Car Accident?

Not all car accident claims require a lawsuit. Many times, these cases resolve through an insurance settlement. The other driver’s insurance company can reimburse you for your car repair expenses and other damages. 

However, there are some scenarios where a car accident lawsuit may be necessary. For example, you may decide to sue if:

• The insurance company denies your claim.
• The insurance company offers a low settlement and refuses to negotiate.\The filing deadline is nearing expiration.
• The other driver doesn’t have insurance, or their policy doesn’t cover your damages.

Still, if the other party has no money to pay for compensation, it may be better to file a claim with your uninsured motorist insurance policy if you have one. An attorney can help you determine the best path forward.

Recoverable Damages in a Car Accident Claim

In a car accident claim, you could recover the following damages:

Economic Damages

Economic damages involve objective losses suffered after a car accident. They include losses that can be valued in terms of money, such as:

• Medical expenses: This includes the cost of initial treatment, therapy, future follow-up treatment, and any other related expenses. 
• Loss of wages: If your injuries forced you to stay out of work for some time, or you’re unable to work again due to a permanent disability caused by the accident, you can claim lost wages. You can also recover damages for reduced earning capacity if you can never work as you did before.
• Property damage: Property damage is common in most car accidents. If your car or any other property in the vehicle was damaged during the collision, you may get compensation for the damaged property. 

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are subjective losses that don’t hold a monetary value. They include the physical, emotional, and psychological pain caused by the accident. A personal injury lawyer can help you calculate and determine the value of your non-economic damages based on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of your case. They include:

• Loss of consortium
• Physical pain and suffering
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Embarrassment and humiliation
• Mental anguish
• Decreased quality of life
• Disfigurement

Assigning a monetary value for non-economic damages can be a complicated process. Some of the factors the jury may consider before determining the award include:

• The severity of your damages
• The challenges you face performing day-to-day activities you used to enjoy before the accident
• The required treatment for your injuries
• How the accident has affected your relationship with your spouse
• How the accident has affected your mental health

Wrongful Death Damages

If you lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be able to claim compensation for:

• Medical expenses incurred before their death, if any
• Burial and funeral expenses
• Loss of guidance and companionship
• Loss of income and other financial benefits

An attorney can represent your family in a wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party.

The Average Amount to Expect from a Car Accident Settlement

There is no average amount for car accident settlements, since every case is different. Working with a legal team can help you determine the right settlement amount to seek in your case.

However, some factors help the involved stakeholders determine the value of your accident settlement. For instance, cases involving life-altering injuries and wrongful death will most likely involve higher amounts. Other factors are also vital, such as medical care during and after the accident, lost wages, property damage, and the insurance policy available.

What Is the Average Time to Recover Compensation from the Car Accident?

Every claim is different, and the time it takes to receive a settlement also varies. Some cases may settle quickly, while others could take months or even a year—especially if the victim is still recovering and the future impact of the injuries is unpredictable. Our car accident lawyers will take care of every detail to make sure you receive your compensation within the shortest time possible.

Contact George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers to Get Help

Our legal team will investigate and evaluate your case, collecting evidence to prove who was responsible for the car accident. We understand you may have suffered severe injuries—let our attorneys at George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers fight for justice and compensation as you focus on recovering.

We don’t charge any fees until we win your case*. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.