When you
sit down to consult with an attorney about a potential car accident case in Los Angeles, one of your first questions is naturally: what is my case worth? The
value of your case is based on the amount of compensation to which you are
entitled under the law from negligent parties who caused your accident. This
compensation is based on the “damages”1 that you suffered as a
result of your accident-related injuries. There are many different types of
damages and the value in car accident cases can vary widely from one victim to
another. The following are types of damages that an LA car accident attorney
will calculate to estimate the value of your case.
Medical
expenses – This
category of losses includes many different types of expenses, including costs
of emergency care, hospitalization, medications, medical equipment, surgeries,
home health care, physical and rehabilitative therapy, assisted living, and more.
Damages can be calculated for both past expenses incurred as well as the
estimated cost of future medical treatments you require for your injuries.
Lost
wages and benefits – Many
car accident victims sustain serious injuries that take a while to recover.
During their recovery, they likely will not be able to work, which means they
will lose income and may struggle to cover their expenses. Fortunately, victims
can seek damages for lost wages and other work benefits. In addition to income
lost in the past, you can seek compensation for future earning power that you
have lost due to long-term challenges or disabilities.
Non-economic
losses – In
addition to financial losses, you can seek damages for intangible sufferings.
This type of damages often applies to cases involving serious or catastrophic
injuries and it is important to have a Los Angeles car accident lawyer who
knows how to calculate this type of damages. Non-economic losses can include
mental trauma, physical pain and suffering, permanent disfigurement or
disability, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.
Because
injuries can vary from one LA car accident case to another, every victim should
contact an attorney to discuss the possible value of a personal injury claim.
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