As a victim of a crash caused by negligence, it is important to understand the damages you can recover with your car accident claim when pursuing compensation. First, you are entitled to compensation for the direct financial losses arising from the crash, like property damage, medical bills and lost wages, collectively referred to as economic damages.
You may also recover non-economic damages, which are compensation for losses that are not financial. These damages are meant to compensate you for the physical and emotional impact of the accident and the ensuing injuries. Below are some common non-economic damages you can recover after a crash.
Mental and physical anguish
You may claim compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries. This includes the psychological impact of the accident, such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Usually, the magnitude of your physical and mental anguish is based on the severity of your injuries and the duration of recovery, among other factors.
Loss of enjoyment of life
Some injuries may limit your physical or mental capabilities, preventing you from participating in activities or hobbies you enjoyed before the accident. If so, you deserve compensation for a diminished quality of life.
Disfigurement or scarring
Injuries that result in permanent disfigurement or scarring can have far-reaching consequences on your overall well-being. You may feel embarrassed, self-conscious and even depressed, affecting your self-esteem and confidence. You could also end up with functional limitations, such as a reduced range of motion.
It’s worth noting that recovering non-economic damages after a crash can be challenging for various reasons. One, there is no fixed monetary value for these losses. Two, non-economic damages are subjective and may vary from person to person. This reality underscores the need for legal guidance to help understand your rights and build a strong case that will improve your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.
