Accidents happen. But sometimes they happen because of human error or negligence. Common examples of personal injury cases include slip and falls, workplace accidents, car accidents, dog bites, medical malpractice, product defects, and assault. When a person is seriously injured in an accident because another person or entity was careless in some way, they can seek out monetary compensation for their damages and losses. Damages and losses differ from case to case, depending on the circumstances of the case, the extent of injuries, the extent of negligence, and more. Personal injury claims generally recognize and consider three types of “losses, called compensatory damages.
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Types of Losses
1. Economic Losses
2. Future Economic Losses
3. Non-Economic Losses (Pain & Suffering)
Compensatory damages are meant to cover a wide variety of expenses and associated costs. Although most of these costs and expenses are pretty obvious, there are many others that victims often unaware of. This is why it is important to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer if you or someone you love was recently injured as a result of another’s negligence. They have the knowledge and resources to navigate every aspect of your case, and recover the fair compensation you deserve.
Types of Economic Losses:
• Medical Expenses
• Hospital Bills
• OTC Medication Costs
• Prescription Costs
• Lost Wages
• Time Off Work
• Child Care Expenses
• Home Maintenance Expenses
• Fuel Costs (to and from doctors’ visits)
Types of Future Economic Losses:
• Prolonged Medical Treatment
• Physical Therapy
• Long-Term Care
• Future Medical Expenses
• Future Prescription Costs
• Future Hospital Costs
Types of Non-Economic Losses:
• Pain and Suffering
• Permanent Disability
• Permanent Disfigurement
• Mental Anguish
• PSTD
• Loss of Social Life
• Loss of Work Abilities
• Loss of Companionship
• Loss of Education Experience
Contributory and Comparative Negligence
Depending on where and how your injuries occurred, some states use contributory negligence laws in personal injury cases. These laws prohibit personal injury victims from recovering compensation (or full compensation) for their losses if the accident was in any way their fault. Other states have laws that will grant victims partial compensation if the accident was only partially their fault.
However in Indiana, we are a comparative fault state. This means that if a victim is 50% or less “at-fault” compared to the other party (or parties), they collect compensation. But if a victim is more than fifty percent at-fault, they cannot collect compensation. It is strongly suggested to discuss your recent injury claim with an Indianapolis accident attorney that can determine the best strategy for your case.
Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.
Craven Hoover Blazek Personal Injury Law 317-881-2700