The day probably started out like any other: the alarm clock goes off and you're up, rushing around to get breakfast, loading everyone into the car and then dropping the kids off before you head into work through busy California traffic. Then, without warning, another car runs a red light and smashes right into you, and everything changes.
Suddenly, your most pressing issues are no longer making sure the kids are on time for school or that you are not late for work. Your concerns are now on how you are going to afford all the medical treatments for the injuries you suffered, and whether you are will be able to pay your bills if you have to miss work while you are recuperating.
Which of your expenses will compensation from a successful personal injury lawsuit cover?
If you have suffered injuries in a motor vehicle accident and file a personal injury lawsuit, there are a number of different kinds of damages you can claim. Some of the basics include:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
Medical Expenses
While this might seem straight forward - all healthcare bills - it can actually be a bit more complicated than it first appears. For one thing, some injuries may not be apparent right away. Others may worsen over time, or require additional therapy or medical treatments far into the future. This is why it can be vital to see a doctor for a comprehensive examination as soon as possible after you have been in a car accident, even if, at the time, you do not believe you have been seriously hurt.
Pain and Suffering
Simply put, "pain and suffering" means physical and mental distress. In a lawsuit, it refers to monetary damages sought for pain - current or future - associated with injuries from the accident, and also emotional and mental impairment caused by the event, like anxiety.
Lost Wages
"Lost wages" is an all-encompassing term for the amount of money you would have earned had you not been injured in the car accident. It could include time spent in a hospital, missed work due to doctor appointments or therapy sessions or even physical issues with mobility - anything that you can prove has prevented you from earning your normal wages.
While there are many other damages that you can pursue in a personal injury lawsuit, such as economic recovery from those at fault, these options may be best explored with a personal injury attorney. First and foremost, you will probably want to focus on your physical and mental health after being involved in a car accident. Once you are ready, a lawyer with experience in similar cases can offer the legal guidance and representation you need to help get your life back on track.
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