There are nearly 40 million personal injury cases treated in ERs across the United States each year. Slip and fall cases, product liability, workplace injuries, and car or trucking accidents are some of the most common types of personal injury cases here in Missouri, and although not uncommon, many victims are left wondering how they can be paid back for costs related to their injuries.
Types of Personal Injury Damages
Damages refers to the compensation a personal injury victim may seek from the at-fault party. There are three main types of damages that can be awarded in personal injury claims: economic, non-economic, and punitive.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are a form of compensation for losses that can be verified and quantified. In other words, economic damages equal a tangible amount that can be calculated. They are often direct costs related to the case.
- Medical Expenses – Let’s say that you had to take an ambulance to the ER after being involved in a car accident. You receive treatment at the ER, follow up with doctors and specialists, and schedule a surgery. All of those expenses are classified as economic damages; depending on the circumstances of your personal injury case, you may be able to pursue the full amount in compensation from the at-fault party.
- Property Damage – Many of us carry important yet expensive items with us every day, such as a cell phone, laptop, and prescription glasses. You can pursue compensation for personal property as well as other types of property, including your vehicle.
- Lost Wages – If your injury caused you to miss work, you are entitled to pursue compensation for any lost salary during that time. In cases of lost earning potential, you may be able to prove that your injury forced you to change jobs or quit working altogether.
- Other Expenses – Your vehicle is still in the repair shop from the accident, but you still have appointments to get to. Part of economic damages can include out-of-pocket expenses such as rideshare services, medications, and other costs.
Each personal injury case is different. Because of Missouri’s comparative negligence rules, you can still seek compensation for damages, even if you were partially at fault. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Non-Economic Damages
Although non-economic damages are more difficult to put a number to, the assistance of a skilled Missouri personal injury attorney can help you identify and calculate costs for any non-economic damages you may have suffered. Non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment
- Disability
- Emotional distress
- Mental Anguish
- Anxiety and/or depression
Whether your case is settled by an insurance company or goes to court, your non-economic damages will be calculated using a formula that includes the severity and longevity of your suffering. Your attorney can give you an idea of the amount that may be offered.
Punitive Damages
Although rare in personal injury cases, the state of Missouri has allowed certain cases to pursue such damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for extreme negligence or intentional harm as well as discourage any future behavior. Because they don’t award the victim for any losses, punitive damages are intended instead to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions.
If you were recently injured due to someone else’s negligence, you need the help of an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Dreyer & Tinney, we put our knowledge of Missouri laws into practice. Our law team will fight diligently on your behalf and serve as a source of information and advice as you navigate your personal injury case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.