Different Kinds of Compensation You Could Receive for Injuries

Have you been seriously hurt in an accident and are now stressed about covering your medical bills?

If the accident wasn’t your fault, it’s crucial to hire an injury lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve. The insurance company of the responsible party is required to pay for your medical expenses and other losses. However, you might need to go to court to ensure you get a fair settlement. Here’s a basic rundown of the types of compensation you might be entitled to receive.

### Types of Injury Compensation

When you’ve been hurt in an accident—whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or a defective product—you might be eligible for two main types of damages: compensatory and punitive.

#### Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages are intended to cover your losses from the injury. These are divided into two categories: general and special damages.

– **Special Damages:** These cover monetary losses, such as:
– Medical bills
– Property damage
– Lost income
– Household expenses
– Costs for ongoing treatments
– Funeral expenses and loss of income if someone dies due to their injuries

– **General Damages:** These compensate for non-monetary losses, such as:
– Pain and suffering
– Mental or emotional distress
– Loss of companionship
– Losses experienced by family members if someone dies due to their injuries

#### Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are meant to punish the party responsible for causing harm, to discourage them and others from engaging in similar behavior. These are awarded when the defendant’s actions are especially harmful, intentional, or reckless.

### Limitations on Damages

Many states have caps on the damages you can receive for personal injuries. These limits vary by state, which is why it’s important to hire a knowledgeable attorney. Chris O’Brien, president of a firm of injury attorneys in Buffalo, NY, suggests choosing a lawyer with experience in handling injury cases. An experienced attorney will understand the limits for both compensatory and punitive damages in your state. They’ll also bring in investigators and medical experts to testify on your behalf, helping to maximize your compensation.

### Statute of Limitations

Another critical limitation is the statute of limitations, which sets a time limit for filing a claim. This period typically extends to three years from the date of the accident but varies by state. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to compensation, except under special circumstances like being incapacitated or discovering your injuries after the deadline.

### Retaining a Lawyer

It’s important to discuss your case with an experienced attorney. They’ll evaluate the specifics of your injury and decide if you have a viable case. If they believe you have a strong case, they might take it on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay them if they win, and their fee comes from your settlement.

If someone else’s negligence has caused your injury, contact an injury attorney to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.