When you are involved in a crash, you may face financial, physical, and emotional challenges. Fortunately, you may be entitled to recoverable damages after an Aurora car accident through a personal injury claim. Understanding the types of damages you could recover can help you pursue the settlement you deserve.
The hardworking auto collision attorneys at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. have decades of experience helping clients obtain fair compensation. They understand how insurance companies operate and could fight to secure a favorable financial recovery for your losses while guiding you through the legal process.
Types of Recoverable Damages
Recoverable damages in an Aurora car accident claim generally fall into two categories: economic and non-economic. We will discuss both types of damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are actual tangible losses that you have placed a monetary value on, such as:
- Current and future medical costs caused, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- The monetary costs are associated with the damage to your vehicle or other belongings in a wreck.
A determined personal injury attorney could help collect necessary documentation as evidence of your economic losses.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify. These are intangible losses such as:
- Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress (psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of consortium
Although non-economic damages are more challenging to calculate, they are equally important. A lawyer could help ensure these losses are included in a settlement offer.
How Comparative Negligence Affects Damages
Illinois follows a comparative negligence principle. This means that if you are found partially responsible for the accident, your recoverable damages could be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
However, if you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you will be barred from recovering any compensation. A compassionate attorney could assess the unique details of your case, help calculate potential damages, and work to minimize any fault assigned to you.
Why You Need a Lawyer Before Pursuing Damages
Having a well-versed attorney on your side is crucial before attempting to recover damages after a car collision in Aurora. The legal process can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize your payout. A lawyer could guide you through the claims process, negotiate on your behalf, and handle the legal intricacies of your case.
The legal professionals at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. can build a strong case, gather evidence, and fight for the maximum damages allowed under Illinois law. If necessary, we could also take your case to court. Call our law office today to schedule an initial consultation with our team.
Call an Aurora Car Accident Attorney for Help Pursuing Recoverable Damages
When you are hurt in a wreck, pursuing compensation could be essential for covering your medical expenses, replacing destroyed property, and rebuilding your life. A lawyer could take on the difficult task of pursuing a fair damage award on your behalf.
The attorneys at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. have decades of experience helping injured parties in Aurora obtain recoverable damages for their losses. Contact our office today to learn how we could help with your personal injury claim.