What damages may be recovered for injuries suffered in a car accident?
There are many elements of damage you may suffer when involved in a car accident. The expenses associated with medical treatment after the accident may be recovered. Medical expenses may be claimed even if the bills are paid by a health insurer or through your auto carrier. Medical expenses reasonably certain to be incurred in the future may also be recovered if supported by the testimony of a physician. The wages lost because of time missed from work may also be claimed even if sick or vacation days are used for some or all of the missed time. These “economic” damages are easier to calculate than the “noneconomic” damages noted below. Compensation for past pain and suffering may be claimed, as may future pain and suffering if a doctor testifies that such pain and suffering will likely occur. “Pain and suffering” refers to the physical pain and discomfort, as well as worry, anxiety and embarrassment that results from the injury. Disfigurement suffered as the result of a car accident is
