Car accidents can be devastating and leave you seriously injured. In a matter of moments, your entire life can be turned upside down. Most people are not prepared to cover the costs associated with treating injuries from auto collisions. The physical, financial, and emotional burden of such an event could overwhelm anyone.
When you are hurt in a motor vehicle crash, you might be wondering what types of compensation you can recover. Recoverable damages after a Cordova car accident can include compensation for your medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the crash. Consult an experienced car wreck lawyer at The Law Office of David E. Gordon to discuss what forms of damages may be available in your specific case.
Types of Damages Recoverable in Auto Accident Cases
When someone is injured in a Cordova car accident due to someone else’s negligence, they can recover various types of damages. Compensatory damages are intended to reimburse the injured person for their economic and non-economic losses, whereas punitive damages punish a defendant for gross negligence or other reckless conduct.
Economic Damages
In a personal injury action, economic damages consist of more easily quantifiable losses. This could include:
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Reduced earning capacity
- The cost of past and future medical care
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
Many people assume only their medical expenses are recoverable after an accident, but economic damages stretch beyond that. When someone loses time from work or cannot return to work due to their injury, a comprehensive damages award must account for it.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are losses related to the accident that are not as easily quantifiable. After a serious crash, victims not only suffer financial harm but also experience physical pain and emotional trauma. It is important for car accident victims to know they are entitled to recover damages for their non-economic losses, too. In a serious auto collision case, non-economic damages might include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In Tennessee, non-economic losses for pain and suffering are capped at $750,000 unless the injury is catastrophic. Because quantifying these types of losses is more difficult, it is important to hire an experienced attorney to help estimate damages.
Punitive Damages
The court sometimes awards punitive damages to the injured person after a motor vehicle collision. Typically, these damages are available only in cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious. Under Tennessee Code § 29-39-104(a)(1), punitive damages are available when the injured party proves by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted “maliciously, intentionally, fraudulently, or recklessly.”
Seek Comprehensive Damages After a Car Accident with the Help of a Cordova Attorney
We know the financial difficulties our clients face after being injured in a serious automobile crash. The cost of medical care can quickly add up, and you might need time off work to recover. There is no reason why you should be left to cover these costs on your own when another driver was negligent.
When you are involved in a car wreck through no fault of your own, call The Law Office of David E. Gordon to learn what compensation may be available in your case. A dedicated legal professional can work with you to estimate the value of your injury and other losses from the accident. Schedule your free and confidential consultation with us today to discuss recoverable damages after a Cordova car accident.
