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Writer's pictureRobert Schuerger II

After the Accident: What Damages Are Available in a Personal Injury Case?

When individuals face the aftermath of a car accident or experience the fallout from a slip on a wet floor, they often confront a whirlwind of medical bills, pain, and distress.


Navigating the maze of personal injury law can be overwhelming, especially when charges such as punitive or non-economic damages get thrown around.


However, trusted by many, Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys have seen it all, from complex wrongful death claims to straightforward injury cases.


With years of expertise in personal injury cases and lawsuits, this article dives deep into understanding the nuances of the damages after an accident. Ready to unravel the complexities? Let's delve in.


The Basics of Personal Injury Law

The Basics of Personal Injury Law


This law revolves around incidents where someone gets hurt due to another person's actions or negligence. It seeks to ensure that injured individuals receive the right compensation for their pain, medical expenses, and other related costs.


Two primary aspects exist within this landscape: the personal injury claim and a lawsuit. A personal injury claim is typically an initial step where the injured party seeks compensation, often from an insurance company.


Suppose this doesn't lead to a satisfactory resolution. In that case, it can escalate into a personal injury lawsuit, a more formal legal action taken against the responsible party to pursue damages. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys can explain who is at fault in a car accident in an intersection.


Types of Damages in Personal Injury Cases


When someone is injured due to another person's negligence or actions, the legal system allows them to seek compensation through personal injury claims or lawsuits. However, what damages are available in a personal injury case? There are primarily three types: economic, non-economic, and punitive.


Economic Damages

Economic damages are straightforward. They cover tangible financial losses that arise because of the injury. This can include medical bills, costs for ongoing medical treatment, and any other related healthcare expenses like How do I make up for lost wages until I get my settlement?


If an injured person can't work because of their injuries, they can claim lost wages. Additionally, if they can't return to their job in the future, they might be compensated for lost earning capacity.


In cases involving property damage, such as car accidents, costs to repair or replace damaged items fall under this category as well.


Non-economic Damages

These are more subjective and pertain to the emotional and psychological impact of an injury. Pain and suffering, the physical or emotional distress resulting from an injury, are among the most common non-economic damages.


Victims can claim compensation for emotional distress, which is a more specific form of psychological turmoil. Loss of enjoyment of life, meaning a wounded person can no longer engage in hobbies or activities they once loved, is another form of non-economic damage in bodily injury law.


Punitive Damages

Punitive damages aren't about compensation but punishment. If the responsible party's behavior was especially harmful or reckless, the court might award punitive damages to deter them and others from similar conduct in the future.


Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to help the victim recover, the punitive ones are more about penalizing severe negligence or intentional wrongdoing.


Navigating Special Personal Injury Lawsuit Scenarios


In the realm of bodily injury law, while many cases fall under general categories, there are unique situations that require special attention. Identifying these different scenarios can help in ensuring that justice is appropriately served.


Wrongful Death Claims

These death claims arise when an individual's negligence or intentional act causes someone else's death. They are particularly heart-wrenching personal injury cases, as the victim's family seeks compensation for their tragic loss.


Damages in these situations often include funeral costs, loss of income from the deceased, pain and suffering, and even loss of companionship. While no amount can genuinely compensate for losing a loved one, a personal injury attorney can guide the family through this challenging process.


Car Accidents and Insurance Companies

After a car mishap, dealing with insurance companies can also be difficult. Moreover, while these entities often aim to minimize payouts, victims can seek rightful compensation for their injuries.


An injury claim following a car incident requires understanding the nuances of insurance policies and negotiating with these companies. This is a complex task best handled by the best personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis.


Product Liability and Medical Malpractice

Faulty products and medical negligence can cause serious injuries as well. Whether it's a defective gadget or a medical procedure gone wrong, the responsible parties must be held accountable for their actions.


Dealing with the Insurance Company in a Personal Injury Claim


Victims often face large insurance companies when pursuing personal injury damages. It's not uncommon for these entities to use tactics to minimize their payouts. They might dispute the severity of injuries, delay proceedings, or even offer quick, lowball settlements, hoping the injured party might accept without fully understanding their rights.


Being aware of these strategies is crucial. A timely and appropriate claim isn't just about immediate losses but contains potential future challenges.


Furthermore, victims must be well-informed, patient, and strategic, ensuring they obtain a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of their personal injury damages and wounds.


The Importance of Legal Assistance for Claiming Personal Injury Damages

The Importance of Legal Assistance for Claiming Personal Injury Damages


Navigating the complex landscape of a personal injury lawsuit can be daunting for many people. Every case comes with its complications, from understanding pain and suffering damages to dealing with insurance companies keen on minimizing payouts.


It's not just about seeking compensation but getting justice and ensuring the victim doesn't suffer more than they already have.


Hence, working with personal injury attorneys who are experienced and skilled can make a profound difference in the outcome. They can guide victims through the labyrinth of legal procedures, ensuring that compensatory damages and other dues are rightfully claimed.


Plus, having an advocate means having someone who understands the nuances of personal injury lawsuits and is ready to fight fiercely on the victim's behalf.


Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys stands out for those seeking such relentless dedication. With a motto that promises, "We go to war for you," it's ready to offer a free consultation and support the cause of each victim.


Final Thoughts


Understanding personal injury damages is pivotal for anyone who finds themselves or their loved ones in a mishap. The costs can be steep, from economic losses to the intangible pain that resonates long after an incident.


Recognizing the rights victims hold and the compensation they can rightfully claim is essential. Personal injury attorneys are the experts who can help unravel the legal intricacies and stand as a barrier against insurance companies aiming to undercut claims.


Moreover, for those seeking guidance and robust representation, Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys offers a beacon of hope, ready to extend its expertise and uphold justice for all victims.

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