A severe injury from a car accident can be financially debilitating. You have the right to demand compensation from the at-fault party for your financial and personal losses related to the crash. Some of those damages can include but are not limited to:
Medical Expenses: This includes past medical bills and the costs for any future treatment you may require, such as emergency services, surgeries, hospitalizations, doctor appointments, physical therapy, and other medical needs. Common injuries in car crashes include broken bones, fractures, brain injuries, spinal injuries, back injuries, burns, and internal injuries.
Lost Wages: Reimbursement for the income you have lost and will lose while recovering. If the accident leaves you unable to work or earn the same level of income as before, you may be able to recover the difference for loss of earning capacity.
Property Damage: This can include repairs to or the replacement of your vehicle if it is totaled. Other objects involved in a car accident may also require repair or replacement, such as buildings, mailboxes, and personal property (e.g., cell phone, laptop, etc.).
Pain And Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and any mental anguish caused by the crash.
Punitive Damages: In cases that involve egregious or malicious conduct, California courts may award punitive damages.
Even if an at-fault party’s insurance company agrees to pay your injury claim, they will not cover damages beyond their policyholder’s limits. If your damages exceed these limits, you will have to file claims against other liable parties for the difference or sue the at-fault driver personally.