If you have been injured in a car accident in middle Tennessee, it is critical to understand the different types of damages that may be available to you. Car accident victims can collect compensatory damages, which are meant to compensate them for their physical or financial losses. There are many different types of compensatory damages, and today, the Miller Injury Firm will explain each of them and how to claim them. Read on, then contact us to speak with a car accident lawyer.
Property Damage
During most car accidents, the victim’s vehicle suffers damage. In some cases, their possessions inside the vehicle may also get damaged. When this happens, it’s referred to as property damage. Car accident victims can sue the at-fault driver for property damage, which would result in the other party and their insurance having to cover the costs of repairs if the victim wins the case. The victim is required to prove that the accident caused the damages, but an experienced car accident lawyer can help with this process.
Lost Wages or Income
After a car accident, the victim may have to recover from injuries. During this time, they may miss work and career advancement opportunities. This results in lost wages for the victim while they’re unable to work, but they can sue the at-fault driver for compensation. The victim needs to provide their pay stubs, a doctor’s note excusing them from work, and, if relevant, proof that they were close to an advancement opportunity.
Pain and Suffering
There’s no doubt that a car accident is a scary, traumatic experience. After being in one, a victim may suffer psychological problems, diminished quality of life, or simply an inconvenience. Fortunately, these intangible issues can be compensated for through pain and suffering damages. The victim must consider the details of the accident and the extent of their suffering to determine a fair amount of compensation.
Medical Damage
Depending on the severity of the crash, some car accidents can lead to pricey medical bills. Between injuries, treatment, physical therapy, and more, the victim may be put into an expensive position. This is where medical damage comes into play. By suing the at-fault driver for medical damages, the victim can receive compensation to cover or reimburse their medical expenses. The best car accident lawyer will help the victim prove their need for compensation by gathering medical bills, statements from doctors, and official diagnoses.
Wrongful Death
An unfortunate fact of life is that some car accidents result in fatalities. If a person has lost a loved one in an accident, they can sue for wrongful death damages. These damages compensate for funeral costs, medical bills, and the loved one’s loss of life. Tennessee law also allows family members to collect on the “pecuniary value” of their loved one’s life, which represents the loved one’s expected lifetime earnings.
Get the Compensation You Deserve
In the state of Tennessee, the statute of limitations allows car accident victims to collect damages up to one year from the date of the accident. This means, if you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you shouldn’t wait to seek legal help. The Miller Injury Firm is here to serve as your personal injury lawyer in middle Tennessee, and we’ll fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your legal needs and to find out which damages apply to your case.