If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim or lawsuit. But what exactly can you expect to recover? Here’s a brief overview from a personal injury attorney in Michigan about what kind of compensation you might be able to expect in a personal injury case.
Compensation in Personal Injury Cases: A Personal Injury Attorney Lawyer in Michigan Explains
Types of Compensation
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the tangible financial losses you suffer due to the injury. These often include medical expenses, such as past and estimated future costs for treatment, hospitalization, medication, and rehabilitation. Lost wages are also frequently a part of economic damages, helping you to recoup income you lose while unable to work because of your injuries, and possibly also lost future income if the injuries impact your earning ability.
Property damage is usually included here, as well, such as costs related to repairing or replacing damaged property like your vehicle.
Non-Economic Damages
This category recognizes the intangible impacts of an injury. These more subjective damages can include pain and suffering (compensation for the physical pain and discomfort associated with the injury); emotional distress (reimbursement for mental anguish resulting from the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder); loss of enjoyment of life (compensation for reduced quality of life if the injury limits your ability to participate in usual activities or hobbies); and loss of consortium (if the injury has a significant impact on your relationship with a spouse or a loved one).
Punitive Damages
In rare cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless or intentional, the court may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar acts in the future.
Factors Affecting Compensation Amount
Several factors can significantly influence the amount of compensation you receive in a personal injury case. The severity of the injury is a significant determining factor: compensation tends to increase with the severity and long-term impact of the injuries.
Liability is another key factor; if you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced. Insurance coverage can play a role, since the at-fault party’s insurance policy limits often dictate the maximum recovery.
Working with an Attorney
Every personal injury case is unique, and navigating personal injury claims can often be incredibly complex. The best way to understand the potential compensation for your specific situation is to consult with an experienced attorney. A lawyer can help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to, negotiate with insurance companies and represent you strongly in court if necessary.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve after an injury. Contact us at Jay Trucks & Associates, PC today for a free consultation to tell your story and discuss your options. We will fight to get you the compensation you’re entitled to.
