February 9, 2021
Car accidents are usually determined by a police officer or a judge to be the fault of one or more parties. Illinois residents involved in auto collisions will have to present evidence and make the case for why fault lies elsewhere if they want to recover compensation. Here is what you should know about car accident damages and how you can claim them after you have been involved in a traffic incident.
The different types of damages in car accidents
From a legal perspective, there are two distinct types of damages that a car crash victim can sustain: economic and non-economic damages. Claiming each requires showing different evidence in court.
General non-economic damages
These damages often have no price tag attached but result directly from the negligence of the at-fault driver who caused the accident. The general damages available to the victim can vary widely depending on individual circumstances and the details of the accident, so an attorney may help the victim come up with a dollar figure for their claim and support it with medical reports. Examples of common non-economic damages awarded to car accident victims include:
- Pain and suffering, both emotional and physical
- Physical disfigurement
- Impaired quality of life
- Physical handicap
Economic damages
Economic damages are generally easier to demonstrate in court and come with a specific dollar amount. Examples of these types of damages can include:
- Property loss or damage for the vehicle itself or items in the vehicle at the time of the crash
- Medical expenses incurred as a direct result of the accident
- Lost wages due to an inability to work
How to maximize your own award in car accident disputes
If you have been victimized by a roadway accident, you need help to get the maximum award possible in your own case. A personal injury attorney may be able to assist you in gathering evidence to support your claim.
