Common Questions For Calculating Damages After A Car Accident
Unfortunately, car accidents are an all too common reality for many people and should someone fall victim to one, it’s critical to understand how damages are calculated when taking legal action for losses. If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s important to know what you’re entitled to and how to get the compensation you deserve. Attorneys like those at Rispoli & Borneo P.C. can attest to the complexities involved in such calculations.
What Are Damages?
The first step in calculating damages is to understand what they include. Typically, damages can be divided into two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages are those that can be quantified in monetary terms, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages are more subjective and include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
What Are Economic Damages And How Are They Calculated?
Economic damages are often the more straightforward part of the calculation. These include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers all medical treatments related to the accident, from immediate emergency care to long-term therapy or rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If the accident has left you unable to work, either temporarily or permanently, you can claim for lost income.
- Property Damage: This refers to the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
What Are Non-economic Damages And How Are They Calculated?
Non-economic damages are more subjective and therefore harder to quantify. They include:
- Pain and Suffering: This refers to the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Emotional Distress: Separate from pain and suffering, this covers anxiety, depression, and other psychological impacts.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries have prevented you from enjoying your usual activities, this can be factored into the claim.
Why Is Documentation So Important?
Comprehensive documentation is essential to ensure that damages are calculated fairly. This includes medical records, police reports, pay stubs to prove lost wages, and any other relevant documents. Proper documentation helps build a stronger case for your claim.
What Role Does A Legal Professional Play?
Navigating the complexities of calculating and claiming damages is challenging. A Newark car accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance throughout the process. They understand the legal nuances and can help ensure that all potential areas of compensation are explored and adequately claimed.
Understanding The Impact Of Comparative Negligence
In many cases, the concept of comparative negligence comes into play. This means that if you were partly at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced proportionally to your degree of fault. Understanding how this impacts your claim is crucial.
Final Thoughts
Calculating damages after a car accident involves a blend of understanding legal principles and meticulous documentation. It’s important to approach this process with a clear head and, if possible, professional guidance. Remember, each case is unique, and the process can be complex, but with the right approach, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for the hardships endured.
It’s important to be aware that the circumstances surrounding each car accident are unique, and calculating damages is a process that may require legal guidance to ensure damages are fairly calculated. Seeking professional legal advice is always recommended to navigate these waters. For the guidance and support you need, reach out to a legal professional who can help make the process as smooth as possible.