Accidents in Indianapolis happen frequently for various reasons. You could get injured in a car accident because of a negligent driver. You could also slip and fall at the grocery store if the store owner fails to remove a hazard from the walkway. When someone else is responsible for your accident, you can sue them and obtain a settlement.
The amount of money you receive in your settlement will depend on the damages you suffer. Discussing your case with an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer from Kooi Law is important because lawyers know how to get the most out of your claim. The key is to assess all the ways the accident affected your life and account for these factors when going to court.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the financial losses you’ve suffered because of your accident. These damages may include your present medical expenses as well as your future medical expenses. You may also suffer property damage because of your accident. If you had to miss work to recover from your injuries, you can recover your lost wages.
Economic damages will likely comprise most of your personal injury claim. Recovering these damages is highly important, because if you don’t, you’ll be stuck with the financial burden of your injuries. This can make recovery significantly more difficult for you.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are the nonfinancial losses you’ve experienced in your accident. When assigning these damages monetary values, your lawyer may suggest a calculation, such as twice the amount of medical expenses for pain and suffering.
Nonfinancial losses can include more than just pain and suffering. You may also claim things like loss of enjoyment of life, scarring and disfigurement, emotional distress, and loss of consortium. When someone’s negligence leads to your injuries, they should have to pay for the emotional effect on your life.
Your life may never be the same because of your accident, and although money can’t change that, money can make recovery easier.
Punitive Damages
The judge is the only one who can award punitive damages in a personal injury lawsuit. Punitive damages are rarely offered, but there are some cases that deserve this additional compensation. If the defendant in your case was grossly negligent or purposely caused you harm, then punitive damages may be offered.
For example, if you were injured by a drunk driver who was on his third DUI charge, the judge may award punitive damages to make an example of the defendant and punish him extensively. You may also receive punitive damages for some cases involving physical or sexual abuse.
Learn How a Lawyer Can Maximize Your Settlement
Calculating the value of your claim on your own isn’t easy. Lawyers are trained to look through every detail of your case and get you the most money possible.
While you may overlook the small details, an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer from Kooi Law won’t. If you want to walk away knowing you fought the hardest you could for justice, you should call our team at 317-569-1335 and schedule a free consultation. You can also visit our website to learn more.