In the aftermath of a catastrophic accident, the last thing you probably want to do is navigate the complexities of the legal system. However, talking to an attorney to discuss your options for filing a personal injury claim can be critical in helping you cope with the repercussions of the accident.
Simply put, you should not have to pay the price for someone else’s recklessness or negligence. And this price can be quite high when you consider all the ways in which a serious accident affects victims and their families.
Economic damages
Getting hurt in an accident can result in expensive medical care, massive hospital bills and ongoing rehabilitation and physical therapy. You might be unable to work, leading to lost wages and difficulty paying your mortgage and utility bills. These are all types of economic damages that can be recovered in a successful legal claim.
Non-economic damages
Oftentimes, the non-financial toll of an accident proves to be as or more significant than other damages. If you are are severely injured and/or disfigured in a serious accident, you can suffer depression, anxiety and mood disorders as a result of the trauma. Your relationships can deteriorate, and your emotional well-being can be damaged. These non-economic damages can also be addressed with a successful legal claim.
Punitive damages
Injuries resulting from another driver’s egregious or malicious actions can lead to an award of punitive damages, as well. In accordance with California laws, these damages are means of punishing the defendant for particularly bad or dangerous actions. They are not awarded in every case, but they can prove to be substantial.
Securing the compensation you deserve
Money is not going to undo an accident or magically repair your injuries. However, it can make it much easier to focus on your recovery and cope with the fallout of the accident, because it can alleviate the anxiety of figuring out how you are going to pay for the things you need.
Compensation can also give you and your family peace of mind in knowing that the party responsible for your injuries has been held legally and financially accountable for their actions. Navigating the legal system with the help of an experienced attorney can help you pursue this compensation and the closure that you deserve.