The person who is involved in a car accident finds his life changed forever. Not only physical but a lot of mental trauma combined with financial losses breaks his life into thousand pieces. The only way to get some semblance of a life back is by filing a compensation claim in court. These are immediate losses that can impact the quality of life of the person in several ways. The accident victim can claim compensation under two categories- punitive damages and compensatory damages. Compensatory damages are further divided into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Under economic damages, all those costs and expenses are included that are the direct result of the mishap. Compensatory economic damages include future medical expenses, past, and current medical expenses, physical therapy expenses, home health care costs, loss of wages, retirement benefits, future loss of wages, property damages, child care expenses, and more. When a person is an accident victim, his life goes upside down. He may have to stay in the hospital for a long time, undergo prolonged treatment, and invest a lot in healthcare expenses. It is not over here but goes on with follow-ups with doctors.
In many cases, the person becomes disable and loses his job. Hiring a Tampa car accident lawyer can help claim some of the costs and damages as compensation. It is important to hire a seasoned lawyer who has expertise in handling similar cases. He can guide the victim to follow the best course of action.
Another category of damages is non-economic, which includes losses or injuries due to the accident on a personal level. These damages are sought for the pain and suffering, physical impairment, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of consortium, etc. Losing close family members in a car accident results in losing the chance to interact with the deceased family member and is considered as non-economic damage. The Tampa car accident lawyer can guide the victim if he is entitled to compensation in this case.
The car accident victim can also claim punitive damages. The court system uses it as a financial penalty punishing the responsible party. It happens when the court believes gross negligence playing a significant role in the accident. It is usually awarded in rare cases. However, if the accident occurred when the person was driving while texting, or under the influence, or recklessly driving, these damages may be demanded by the lawyer.
Florida State has limited punitive damages to three times the amount awarded as compensatory damages or $500,000, whichever is higher.
As soon as the accident occurs and the person gets his bearings back, it is important to hire an experienced car accident attorney who can study the case and help the victim fight for a compensation claim. Look for a reputed Tampa law firm and discuss the case with the expert lawyer. Follow the guidance given by the lawyer and proceed with the case to get the desired outcomes. Although getting damages will not make life completely normal, it can certainly make it more manageable.