Car accidents can hurt people physically, make them feel bad emotionally, and cost a lot of money. To get fair compensation for your losses, you need to know what kinds of damages you can file for. Based on the details of the accident, these claims can include anything from medical bills to lost wages and even mental pain. Getting compensation makes sure that you can recover financially and focus on getting better without any extra stress.
Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta and is known for its busy streets and lively neighborhoods. But because there are more and more cars on the road, accidents happen more often and leave people with extensive losses. Edmonton car accident lawyers can help you figure out what your legal options are after an accident and make sure you get the compensation you deserve. If you were hurt in a car crash, you may be able to claim the following types of damages.
Medical Expenses
The cost of medical care is one of the most important damages you can ask for after a car crash. Injuries can be very small, like cuts, or very serious, such as traumatic brain injuries or permanent disabilities. You can get reimbursement for the following medical costs:
- Emergency care and ambulance services
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medications and medical equipment like braces and crutches
In Edmonton, medical bills can pile up quickly, especially if you need long-term care. For your claim, you must keep detailed records of all the money you spend on medical care.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages cover the harm the accident did to your body and your emotions. These aren’t economic losses because they’re harder to measure and more subjective. Some examples are:
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Emotional trauma, such as anxiety or sadness
- Loss of enjoyment of life or fear of driving
When courts award pain and suffering damages, they often look at how severe your injuries were and how they will affect you in the long run. This claim can be backed up by keeping a journal to record your physical and emotional experiences.
Lost Income and Earning Capacity
Injuries from a car accident can often prevent you from working, either for a short time or permanently. This could lead to lost wages and less possibility to make money. This type of compensation can include:
- Salaries or hourly wages lost that were while the person was recovering
- Lost opportunities to get promoted or raises
- Less money to spend if you can’t go back to your old job
For example, if your injury makes it impossible for you to do physically demanding tasks, you might have to switch to a job that pays less. Having the right documentation, such as pay stubs and medical records, will help your claim.
Loss of Consortium
If you’re married, your injuries may also affect your relationship with your spouse. People file claims for loss of consortium to get compensation to make up for the effects of the accident on their marriage, such as the loss of affection and companionship. For instance, if your injuries make it hard for you to do things together or be intimate with your partner, your spouse may file a separate claim.
Property Damage
Car accidents often cause damage to your car and other personal items, as well as injuries to people. You can claim:
- The cost to fix your car or the cost to buy a new one if it’s totaled
- Damage to gadgets and other personal items inside the car
- The costs of renting a car while yours is being fixed
Edmonton’s insurance laws usually require that these costs should be covered by the insurance of the driver who was at fault. To make your claim stronger, make sure you get evidence, such as pictures of the damage and estimates of how much it will cost to fix.
