You are hurt. You have injuries, cannot go to work, and are struggling with the emotional toll of what someone did to you. It does not seem fair, and it certainly can be frustrating that your life is on hold because of someone else. The good news is that you can seek compensation for your losses from the at-fault party through a Nashville personal injury claim. The key to doing so is having evidence that documents what the damages are and why you believe the other party is responsible for your injury.
Personal Injury Case Damages
Every situation is very unique. For that reason, it is wise to work with a personal injury attorney who will help you evaluate all aspects of your case and its impact on your health and well-being. The following are examples of personal injury losses. You may be owed compensation for others. Here is a look at some of the most common damages suffered in personal injury cases.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are losses you can demonstrate based on their specific financial impact on your life. These damages are specific and typically quantifiable. They tend to include:
- Medical bills: All losses from the emergency medical care through your follow-up treatment are a component of your claim. This may include doctor costs, hospital and therapy center costs, testing and procedures, surgery, hospital stays, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you can pursue compensation for the wages you have lost. This typically includes your salary or hourly rate over the last few months, bonuses, and any type of benefits you cannot obtain.
- Property damage: You can also file a claim for property damage, such as damage to your car or other personal items, that were damaged as a result of the accident.
- Out-of-pocket costs: Any other costs you have may be a part of the claim. That includes paying for transportation to and from recovery appointments or modifications to your home because you need to use a wheelchair.
Document all of these losses carefully. Most often, you have receipts that will help demonstrate what these losses are. That makes it easier for you to have evidence of your loss.
Non-Economic Losses
Far less quantifiable, but often more substantial in the impact on your life, are non-economic losses. These are losses that you cannot easily show a receipt for, but that are impacting your life and health. Examples include:
- Pain and suffering: Including pain from the actual injury, but also the suffering you have throughout the recovery period
- Loss of enjoyment in life: If you cannot engage in activities you once loved because of your new injuries, that is something to document here.
- Emotional distress: It is very common for those in serious accidents to suffer emotional distress, including the onset of conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Relationships: Consider the impact on your relationships as well as loss of consortium, or how your significant other may be suffering.
In all of these situations, documentation and proof are on your shoulders as the victim. When you hire a Nashville accident attorney, that could become a bit easier as your lawyer knows where to find information and evidence to substantiate your claims. Do not wait to contact an attorney for a free consultation to discuss these losses closely.