After a car accident, injury victims may be able to obtain compensation, or damages, from the at-fault driver. These damages are monetary awards meant to compensate the victim for all of their losses. In general, there are no damages caps in Alexandria car accident cases unless the claim is against the state of Louisiana or another public entity. In these cases, general damages are capped at $500,000.
If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision, consider discussing your situation with an experienced attorney. An Alexandria lawyer could help identify and calculate the damages that apply in your car accident case.
Types of Recoverable Damages
Recoverable damages in an Alexandria car accident case fall into three categories: economic, non-economic, and punitive. Most auto insurance policies cover all of these damages, but some exclude punitive damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are for quantifiable monetary losses that an individual sustains in an accident. These can include lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage expenses. Notably, economic damages can encompass both past and future losses in cases where individuals are unable to work or require ongoing medical care.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are also called general damages, and general damages encompass things like pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, scarring, and disfigurement. They are calculated by the judge or the jury based on what is reasonable under the circumstances. General damages are typically a function of the extent of the injuries and the extent of the medical treatment that the injured party underwent.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault party in order to discourage their behavior. Punitive damages are uncommon because there are only limited circumstances in Louisiana under which punitive damages are awardable for an automobile case. If the accident was caused by an intoxicated or impaired driver, punitive damages may be available.
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Role of an Attorney in Recovering Damages
When attempting to recover damages after a car accident, attorneys could gather all of the medical records, advise the victim on medical treatment, negotiate with health providers for more affordable medical treatment, and assemble all other forms of evidence necessary to prevail in the case. A lawyer also helps by knowing what awards are appropriate for the various injuries that an individual might sustain in a car accident case. Because of their extensive experience, they know what a reasonable fact-finder might award within a given range on each case. Without a lawyer, injury victims risk short-selling their cases because they do not know the true value of their injuries and all of the elements of damages that they can recover.
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Reach Out to an Alexandria Car Accident Attorney Today
If you were hurt in an Alexandria automobile collision, you may be entitled to damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, calculating a fair value for these damages and presenting a compelling case can be a difficult task. Fortunately, an experienced attorney could help with your case. Call today to schedule a consultation.
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