If you've been injured in a car accident, you probably want as much money as possible. After all, the other driver should have been more careful, and now they should have to pay. The only problem is that's not exactly how the law works. Here's what you can really recover.
What's the Purpose of a Car Accident Lawsuit?
The purpose of a car accident lawsuit is not to punish the other driver. That's what the police do when they issue a traffic ticket and possibly file criminal charges after a serious accident. The purpose of a car accident lawsuit is only to help you to recover from your losses. The money you receive should put you back in the same place as you were before the accident.
For example, say an accident left you with $20,000 in hospital bills and a totaled car. You would be able to sue for $20,000 plus the value of your car at the time of the accident. Since you're no longer out $20,000 and are able to buy an identical replacement car, everything has evened out.
What Medical Bills Can You Recover?
Depending on the type of injuries you sustained, it may be difficult to determine your medical expenses. Some injuries need a defined treatment and are relatively easy to value. Others may require long-term care that could continue after your personal injury case concludes. You may need to work with your lawyer to get a doctor to testify about how much future care you will need and what it will cost. No matter what medical expenses you have, you are entitled to a full recovery.
What Lost Wages Can You Recover?
You can also recover your lost wages in full. This might include immediately after the accident, during long-term care, and reduced earnings due to not being able to work in your previous job due to disability. Lost wages includes any type of diminished earnings in both the short and long term.
To prove your claim, you may need to show your earnings history from your job as well as your potential for future promotions and raises. If you are unable to return to your previous job but are able to work in a different job, you may be entitled to the difference in your earning potential rather than your entire salary. These calculations are complicated, and you should work with an attorney.
To learn more about what you can recover for your car accident case, contact a local accident lawyer from a firm like Siben & Siben LLP today.
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