Your Rights After You Are Hurt In A Car Accident: Why Fault And The Extent Of Your Injuries Matters

When you get into a car accident, your first concern is always to get any medical treatment that you need. Once you learn the extent of your injuries, you may discover that the other driver was responsible for causing the accident. If you are out of work for any length of time, you have the right to receive money to cover lost wages. In addition, even if you are partially at fault, you can still seek compensation which will be prorated based on your percentage of fault. As long as you are less than 50% at fault, you can seek compensation for damages- and even higher a personal injury lawyer, like Kidwell & Gallagher LTD.

Lost Wages and Medical Bills

You'll be able to receive money for time you spend out of work because of your injuries, and for medical bills that have piled up. These are considered pecuniary losses, and they are losses that are easy to measure. If you go back to work quickly, these may be the only damages you receive if you file a personal injury lawsuit. If the insurance company of the at fault driver offers you a settlement that is slightly higher than your lost wages and medical bills, you might consider signing the settlement and moving on with your life.

When Your Injuries are More Severe

Injuries that are permanent, or that are very painful to recover from will entitle you to more money in a personal injury lawsuit. While you can still try and settle with an insurance company, you should seek the help of an attorney to help you decide how much money you should settle for. If you are never going to be able to work again, you will need to take into consideration how much money you would have made if you were healthy. You'll also need to consider your needs over the years, and the amount of medical treatment you may need. If the insurance company is quick to offer a settlement and you are permanently injured, this is a good sign that you have a very strong case.

Prorated Compensation When You're Partially at Fault

Consider that it is determined that you are 20% at fault for the accident. If the judge awards you $100,000, this means that you will receive $80,000 for your injuries. This rule allows you to file a lawsuit for injuries you sustained while also claiming your share of responsibility for causing the accident in the first place.

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