Car accidents can leave us with more than just vehicle damage—they can impact our health, finances, and overall well-being. When we file a claim, it’s important to understand the different types of damages we may be entitled to recover. While every case is unique, most car accident claims fall into three main categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages. Let’s break them down so we know what to expect when seeking compensation.
1. Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the financial losses we experience as a direct result of the accident. These are the easiest to calculate because they come with clear dollar amounts.
- Medical Expenses – Whether it’s emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, or prescription medications, we can claim compensation for both current and future medical costs related to our injuries.
- Lost Wages – If our injuries force us to miss work, we can recover lost income. In severe cases, we may also claim compensation for reduced earning capacity if we’re unable to return to the same job or work at all.
- Property Damage – Repairing or replacing our vehicle can be costly, and we can include these expenses in our claim. This may also cover damaged personal belongings inside the car, such as phones, laptops, or child car seats.
- Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses – If we need to hire help for household chores, pay for transportation to medical appointments, or modify our home due to a disability, these costs can be added to our claim.
2. Non-Economic Damages
At Burton Law Firm, we know that not all losses from a car accident come with a price tag. Non-economic damages compensate us for the pain and suffering caused by the accident. These are more subjective and vary from case to case.
- Pain and Suffering – Car accidents often leave us with more than just physical injuries. Chronic pain, discomfort, and emotional distress can take a toll on our lives, and we deserve compensation for that.
- Emotional Distress – Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological effects can develop after a serious accident. If we’re struggling mentally and emotionally, we may be able to recover damages for the impact on our mental health.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life – If our injuries prevent us from doing activities we once loved—like playing sports, traveling, or even spending time with family—we may be entitled to compensation for our reduced quality of life.
3. Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are not meant to compensate us for losses but rather to punish the at-fault party for extreme negligence or intentional misconduct. These are less common and are typically awarded in cases involving reckless driving, drunk driving, or hit-and-run accidents. If the other driver’s actions were especially dangerous, the court may impose punitive damages as a way to discourage similar behavior in the future.
Understanding the types of damages we can claim after a car accident helps ensure we seek full and fair compensation. While economic damages help cover our financial losses, non-economic damages address the emotional and physical toll of the accident. In rare cases, punitive damages may also apply. Working with our Raleigh, NC car accident lawyer can help us maximize our claim and fight for the compensation we deserve. If we’ve been in an accident, we shouldn’t settle for less than what we’re entitled to—our future well-being depends on it.