Calculating personal injury damages may seem straightforward, but it’s actually fairly complex, especially if you require long-term medical treatment. Your award should cover all costs, ranging from out-of-pocket expenses to the intangible effects on your quality of life. Below are some common types of expenses you may be able to collect after an accident caused by someone else’s negligence.

Kinds of Damages in Personal Injury Claims

1. Medical Expenses

Every personal injury claim begins with medical expenses, which may include insurance copays, prescription medications, and physical therapy. Your insurance settlement should also cover the costs of any future treatment you may need, so consider speaking to a legal professional if you’ll require additional surgeries, extensive therapy, or continuous care.

2. Lost Wages

The liable party can also be held responsible for any income you’ve lost as a result of your injuries. This includes hours missed while attending doctor’s appointments or recovering in the hospital, as well as any other work opportunities you’ve lost. Victims who suffer permanent disabilities may also be able to sue for loss of future income.

3. Pain & Suffering

Although it may be difficult to quantify the physical pain and emotional trauma you’ve suffered, your claim should include compensation for these experiences. To calculate these noneconomic damages, your attorney will normally multiple your total monetary losses by a number between 1.5 and five, depending on the severity of your injuries. The more serious the injuries and the longer the recovery, the higher the payment will be.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s recklessness, the personal injury attorneys at Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC, are prepared to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve. Their legal team has over 70 years of combined experience serving clients throughout Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas. Visit their website for more on their personal injury services, follow their Twitter for insights, and call (573) 686-2459 to schedule a consultation.