Personal injury laws allow you to pursue compensation if you suffered harm due to someone else’s negligent actions. This money can alleviate the financial burden of medical bills, loss of income, and other expenses. You can receive several types of damages, depending on the circumstances of your case. The personal injury attorneys at MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C., in Middletown, NY, have helped many clients secure the payments to which they’re entitled in these cases and explain compensation options.

4 Categories for Personal Injury Damages

Special Compensatory

Special compensatory damages cover expenses or financial losses caused by an injury. This includes medical bills, the cost of future treatment, loss of earnings, loss of future earnings, and household expenses. There is no limit to the amount an injured party can seek in special damages.

General Compensatory

General compensatory damages provide payment for nonmonetary losses that result from a personal injury incident. This typically refers to pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of companionship. Most injury victims receive damages in this category.

Punitive

Punitive damages are granted in cases where the actions of the defendant were particularly reprehensible. Fraudulent and malicious behaviors are examples of how a defendant might show reckless disregard for the plaintiff’s well-being. However, it’s rare for a court to award punitive damages.

Wrongful Death

If a victim dies due to someone else’s carelessness, family members often turn to a personal injury attorney to file a wrongful death claim. This action can achieve damages that cover funeral costs, medical care, loss of financial support, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

Since every case is different, it’s important to consult a personal injury attorney to explain your options and help you file a claim for damages. To schedule an appointment with an experienced lawyer in New York’s Hudson Valley, call MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C., at (845) 343-3000. Visit them online for information about their other practice areas, including employment and corporate law, and like them on Facebook for more legal tips from the firm.