A personal injury claim can occur from a broad range of circumstances, and the injuries suffered can range from a broken arm or leg to death. Automobile accidents are the number one cause of personal injury claims in the United States. If you’ve been injured in an automobile or otherwise, it’s important to understand the types of damages for which monetary recovery is possible so that you can be fully apprised of your right to recovery. The following is a non-exhaustive list of the types of damages that may be recoverable:
  • Medical expenses: payments and bills for doctors, treatment, ambulance fees, hospital stays, etc. that resulted from your injury. In addition, you may be able to recover for future medical expenses that are reasonably necessary to treat your injury.
  • Pain and suffering: past and future physical pain associated with an injury. This may include anxiety, apprehension, nervousness, embarrassment, terror, or shock.
  • Lost wages: the amount of wages you would have earned from the time of the injury to the date of the judgment or settlement.
  • Lost earning capacity: when your ability to earn future income is impaired or diminished by the injuries you’ve sustained, you may be able to recover for your lost earning capacity.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: an inability, or diminished ability, to enjoy the everyday pleasures of life.
  • Loss of consortium: deprivation of the benefits of married life after an injury, including companionship and affection.
  • Disfigurement: deformities such as scars or other permanent effects on your personal appearance resulting from an injury sustained.
As previously noted, this list merely represents some of the more common types of damages for which a personal injury claimant may recover. If you have sustained any one of these injuries or would like more information about your personal injury claim, contact an experienced personal injury attorney.