You’re trying to merge on to the 5, heading to work to close your latest deal. Suddenly, another car slams into you and sends you flying into the wall. Now you’re hurting, you’ve wrecked your car and who knows what work will do without you.
Accidents happen to over 2 million Americans every year, so you’re not alone. And getting into an accident can have high costs. From medical bills to repair costs to lost business opportunities, the list can go on. While insurance can dampen the blow, sometimes you need to take further action to get fully compensated. Filling a personal injury claim might be a way to get things back on track.
Do I have a case?
California requires drivers to obey laws and drive responsibly. If their negligence causes a breach of this responsibility, and that was a factor in causing you harm, then you may have a chance at recompense.
Economic damages
If you can prove the other driver was negligent, then you may be able to recover damages for a variety of charges:
- Medical bills
- Lost earnings at work
- Lost business opportunities
- Vehicle repair costs
Non-economic damages
Damages that fit on a spreadsheet aren’t the only ones covered. You can’t easily count subjective pain and suffering, but you can include these types of losses that stem from an accident:
- Emotional distress: You’re unable to cope with things like the fear, grief, anxiety or shock stemming from your accident.
- Mental suffering: You develop mental symptoms like insomnia, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Lost earning capacity: If your accident is going to inhibit your ability to make money in the future due to something like a severe injury.
Don’t face these expenses on your own. If you’re feeling the hurt after a car accident, filing a personal injury suit could be the way to your life back. An understanding of negligence, and what damages you could recover is the first step toward putting the pieces back together.
