What Types of Compensation Can I Seek in a Car Accident Lawsuit?
Following a car accident that was caused by another negligent party, you can legally seek compensation to help you recover compensation for the losses and injuries you’ve suffered. The type of compensation you can seek in a car accident lawsuit is aimed at making you “whole” again. That means the legal system works to place you in the position you were in before the accident as much as possible. For victims in Buffalo, NY, this often involves pursuing financial recovery for the costs incurred as a result of the accident, as well as the personal impact it has had on your life.
At Steve Foley Law Firm, we understand the stress and uncertainty that follows a car accident. Our firm has over three decades of experience handling cases for injured victims. A Buffalo car accident lawyer will compassionately support you in pursuing adequate compensation.
Types of Recoverable Damages in a Buffalo Car Accident Lawsuit
Damages in a car accident are usually broken down into two main categories namely economic and non-economic damages. Each category is assessed differently and aims to cover a range of losses.
Economic Damages
Economic damages in personal injury cases compensate for the financial costs associated with the accident. These are tangible, easily quantifiable losses and may include:
- Medical costs. Americans injured in car crashes spend roughly a million combined days in the hospital every year, where they incur significant medical costs. Victims can pursue compensation for expenses related to hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any ongoing care they may need as a result of their injuries.
- Property damage. You can seek restitution for the costs of repairing or replacing any of your property damaged in the car crash.
- Lost ability to earn an income. If your injuries stop you from going back to your old job or cut down your earning potential, you may seek compensation for the loss of future income.
- Lost wages. According to recent statistics, around 30% of people involved in car crashes miss at least one day of work, If someone has to take time off work due to injuries, they may recover compensation for the income they lost during that period.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages cover the more subjective, personal losses that arise from a car accident. These are less straightforward to calculate but are no less important:
- Pain and suffering. This makes up for the physical pain and emotional burden you’ve gone through because of the crash.
- Emotional distress. Accidents can cause psychological issues like anxiety and depression or PTSD, which can be compensable.
- Loss of enjoyment of life. If the injuries sustained prevent you from enjoying activities you once loved, you may be compensated for this loss.
- Loss of consortium. If your injuries have put a strain on your relationship with your spouse, compensation may be available for loss of companionship or intimacy.
These damages help victims of car accidents in Buffalo reclaim their lives by covering not just the financial costs, but also the emotional and psychological impact of the accident. Therefore, working with a car accident lawyer in Buffalo is highly advisable to ensure an accurate calculation of these damages for a possible fair recovery.
Contact a Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer to Help With Your Compensation
While the law entitles you to seek compensation after a car accident, creating a compelling case is key to achieving a fair outcome. If your injuries demand prolonged treatment or lead to significant lifestyle changes, it is recommended to work with a car accident lawyer in Buffalo. At Steve Foley Law Firm, we have the resources and experience required to build a strong case aimed at securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and to learn how we can help secure your rightful compensation.