Were you the victim of a car accident in the “Peach State”? Then you surely know that you can seek compensation from the party who caused your accident. The value of the compensation will depend on several factors. The best way to assess it is to consult an Albany car accident lawyer.
Until you get a chance to do that, knowing what types of damages are subject to compensation may help. We will review them in the following lines. If you decide to claim them, remember that you will need clear evidence. Without it, your claim will be denied or the value of the compensation will be drastically reduced.
If you’re interested in learning more about what you need to do to file an auto accident lawsuit in Georgia, visit this page.
Types of Damages an Albany Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Claim
1. Property Damages
Georgia laws give you the right to recover the costs of repairing or replacing any assets damaged in the accident. Thus, if your car needed repair, you can recover the value of the repair works and parts. If it was damaged beyond repair, you should be able to recover its market value.
Other assets are compensable as well. For example, perhaps you had your laptop or tablet with you, or your kids’ bike in the trunk. If they incurred damages in the accident, you should claim compensation for those as well. Proving the damage could be tricky, so consider consulting an Albany car accident lawyer!
2. Medical Bills
Any money you spend on your recovery is subject to compensation. Your claim can include hospital bills, medicines, surgery, medical devices, doctor consultations, physical therapy, etc. Just remember to provide supporting documents.
Also, keep in mind that not consulting a doctor or failing to follow their recommendations could cost you. To avoid mistakes and defend your interests, you should discuss your case with a Georgia automobile accident attorney. They will guide you through the claim process.
3. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If your injuries force you to take time off work, you will lose money. It is your right to claim that money from the party responsible for your Albany vehicle accident. However, no one will take your word on how much money you lost and may continue to lose.
Provide account balances and income statements as evidence and cite your co-workers or superiors as witnesses. If you know of other similar cases, using them for reference could be a good idea. A car wreck lawyer could help you calculate and document your losses.
4. Pain and Suffering
Did you incur severe injuries that caused a significant amount of physical or emotional pain? You may be entitled to a different type of compensation, for your physical and emotional trauma. Unfortunately, proving it will not be easy. Think physician and psychiatric evaluations, medical studies, expert testimonies, and more!
5. Loss of Affection or Companionship
If your accident injuries negatively affect your marriage and you end up divorced, your suffering should be compensated. Getting the compensation will not be easy, though. You will have to prove losing your spouse’s love and connect the loss to the accident.
6. Punitive Damages
These are awarded as a measure to punish gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing. They too need consistent evidence. An Albany auto accident lawyer can help you obtain it. They will also help you assess the value of your claim and explain any issues that may affect your claim.
Damage Caps and Other Limitations Car Accident Lawyers Explain to Their Clients
Some states limit the amount of damages car accident victims can claim. Georgia used to have caps as well. However, in a 2010 case, the Supreme Court ruled that damage caps were unconstitutional. Only punitive damages are capped at $250,000, a pretty generous amount.
While there is no limit to how much money you can obtain as compensation, some time restrictions apply. According to GA Code Section 9-3-33, you have two years to seek compensation for your injuries. For property damages, the deadline is four years. You should never wait that long.
Let an Albany Car Accident Lawyer Help You Recover All Losses!
Now you know that there is no clear limit to how much money you can claim as compensation. The amount will obviously reflect the losses you incurred as a result of the car accident. It will also depend on the evidence you can provide.
Why struggle to prove your losses by yourself and face the insurance company alone? At Joe Durham Jr. law offices, you will find the information and support you need. Call (229) 351-5320 now, and schedule a free case evaluation! It is your chance to find out how much your claim is worth.
