If you’ve been in a car accident, one of the first questions that often comes up is what kind of compensation may be available. Whether the crash caused minor injuries or major damage, the financial impact can add up quickly. A personal injury claim is meant to help cover those costs. Below is a breakdown of the different types of compensation that may be available in a car accident case.
1. Medical expenses
This is usually the most significant part of any claim. Compensation can include emergency care, hospital stays, follow-up visits, physical therapy, surgery, and prescription medications. It can also cover future medical treatment if ongoing care is needed. Personal injury attorneys recommend keeping copies of hospital bills and other medical expenses. Such documentation helps show how the injuries were directly linked to the accident.
2. Lost income
If the injuries keep you from working, you may be able to recover the income you missed while recovering. This applies to both full-time and part-time workers. In some cases, even self-employed individuals may qualify for lost income compensation if proper documentation is provided. Sometimes an injury can affect a patient long-term, and this fact can also be factored in when computing your settlement.
3. Property damage
Vehicle repairs or the replacement value of a totaled car are common parts of accident-related claims. This can also include damage to personal belongings inside the vehicle at the time of the crash, such as a phone, laptop, or child car seat. Insurance adjusters typically assess vehicle damage, but it’s helpful to get independent repair estimates as well.
4. Pain and suffering
This refers to the physical discomfort and emotional impact caused by the accident and recovery process. Unlike medical bills or lost wages, this type of compensation is more subjective. Factors like the severity of the injury, length of recovery, and impact on daily life are all considered. Generally, insurance companies aren’t willing to factor in pain and suffering, but a car accident lawyer can help push for this.
5. Emotional distress
In some cases, the emotional effects of an accident go beyond general pain and suffering. Individuals may experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. When supported by medical evaluations or mental health treatment, emotional distress may be included in a personal injury claim.
6. Loss of enjoyment of life
If the injury prevents someone from doing activities they once enjoyed—such as sports, hobbies, or travel—this may be part of the overall compensation. While harder to quantify, it reflects a real impact on a person’s lifestyle and well-being.
7. Out-of-pocket costs
Expenses like transportation to medical appointments, over-the-counter supplies, or hiring help for household tasks can also be included. Keeping receipts and records helps document these types of costs.
Why Legal Support Matters
Attorneys like those at Blaszkow Legal, PLLC can attest to how valuable it is to fully evaluate all categories of potential compensation. A detailed and organized claim often leads to better outcomes, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to settle for less than what the case is worth. Reach out to an attorney today to learn more!
