After an accident, it may be possible to obtain compensation for your injuries. While there is generally no maximum amount that you may be entitled to from the person or entity that caused your injuries, there is generally no minimum amount either. Cases are decided based on the circumstances surrounding an accident in addition to what state law may have to say about them.
What Can I Get Compensation For?
Your personal injury attorney will be able to walk you through the process of obtaining compensation for medical bills, lost wages and lost future earnings. Typically, you are entitled to be paid for any medical bills that you incur both now and in the future. For instance, if you have to get surgery six months after the accident or need physical therapy for several years, that will be paid for by whoever hurt you.
Do I Get Compensation for All Lost Wages and Future Earnings?
As a general rule, you are entitled to lost wages from the date of your accident until your case is resolved. This is often a simple task of looking at past pay records to determine how much you would have made if you weren’t injured. However, calculating your lost future earnings is a little harder because it relies on estimates and projections.
For instance, it isn’t possible to say for sure that you would remain in your current field of work or that you would be guaranteed a promotion in five years. It is important to note that your lost earnings award may be lowered if you are able to find work after the accident or would likely be able to find work if you want it. Your personal injury lawyer will work to make sure that you get as much as possible from a settlement or jury verdict.
Can I Get Compensated for Renovations Made to a House or Car?
If you are unable to get around your house or drive a car because of your injuries, it may be necessary to modify them. For instance, you may put in a motorized lift to help you get to upper levels of the house or add a wheelchair ramp to get into your car. Since the costs are related to your injuries suffered in an accident in which you were not at fault, those costs would be covered.
What If I Experienced Property Loss or Damage?
In an accident, your car may be damaged or destroyed beyond repair. It is also possible that your laptop or other personal belongings were lost or damaged after a crash. Generally, the cost to replace those items may be included in a settlement or jury award. However, if the items were merely sentimental in value, an estimated value will be placed on them.
What Else Could I Be Compensated For?
Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may not be able to play sports, play with your kids or take part in other activities that you used to enjoy. You may be compensated for lost quality of life or any other changes to your lifestyle brought on by your injuries. A financial award may also be available if you are unable to be romantic with a partner or enjoy a quality relationship with your children because of your injuries.
The amount of compensation that you could win in a personal injury case depends on many variables. If you want to settle the case quickly, you may not get every dollar that you are entitled to. If you are partially responsible for your injuries, that may reduce the amount of compensation that you actually receive. Although there is no guarantee that you will obtain millions of dollars in a case, it is always a good idea to talk with an attorney to preserve your rights.
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