What Damages Can I Recover from a Car Accident?

Last Updated on February 5, 2024 by John Robinson

If you find yourself as a victim of a car accident, then the damages you are entitled to will depend on the extent of losses you suffered in your case. 

The other party’s carelessness also dictates the damages that an individual receives. 

According to California’s laws, the types of damages mentioned below are common in personal injury cases revolving around car accidents.   Please remember that this list is not all-inclusive. You have the liberty to pursue financial recovery for any losses that you suffer or expose yourself to relating to the accident for obvious reasons. 

Medical Bills

If your car accident possibly resulted in severe injuries, you were likely rushed to the hospital. You have to cover your medical bills, which can be especially difficult if you are not insured. 

The severity of your injuries often dictates how expensive your medical bills will be. Your medical bills can include a range of services from the hospital such as:

  • Surgery costs
  • Ambulance rides
  • Hospitalization costs
  • Rides to and from the hospital
  • Rides to and from the hospital
  • Doctor’s visits
  • Medical device costs
  • Prescription and over-the-counter medications
  • Medical device costs
  • Therapy or rehabilitation bills
  • At-home care costs

You are eligible for compensation for these medical bills that help with your physical recovery to claim your insurance in a personal injury lawsuit. 

Lost Wages

You were on your way to work when you fell victim to a car accident and the injuries from that crash are preventing you from continuing your job. 

If you can prove that the other driver was at fault, you can recover your lost wages, bonuses, and even promotions, in some cases, you could have earned without being harmed. As of now, your professional life has been negatively affected by the unexpected accident. 

Sometimes, terrible car accidents can cause permanent disabilities. As a result, that disability makes you stand out in the working environment where they were employed. This can affect your ability to work, even though it wasn’t your fault. Fortunately, you can receive compensation for this change in your working conditions and reduced earning capacity.

Damage of Property

Your car was terribly damaged in the accident, and now you are wondering how you will cover the cost. Guess what? You might be eligible for compensation that can cover the damaged property. 

Contact your concerned insurance company. If they declare your vehicle as a total loss, then you might qualify for compensation to replace your vehicle altogether. 

Do you now have to use public transportation like a bus or a taxi? Since you can’t drive your car after the accident, you can get compensation to recover those expenses as well. 

Pain and Suffering

Some people, unfortunately, lose their loved ones in car accidents. The emotional suffering and grief that they go through is immeasurable. A constant trauma remains at the back of their minds that discourages them from doing anything fruitful. According to the Oakland car accident lawyers at Milanfar Law, these particular types of damages fall into noneconomic damage and you can receive compensation for the following in exchange for a personal injury lawsuit: 

  • Physical pain
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Mental anguish
  • Disability or disfigurement

In essence, if you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of a car accident, understanding the various types of damages you may be entitled to is crucial. From covering medical bills incurred due to severe injuries to recovering lost wages and addressing property damage, the pursuit of compensation is vital. Moreover, recognizing the impact of pain and suffering, especially in cases of loss or emotional distress, underscores the importance of seeking recourse through a personal injury lawsuit.

John Robinson
John Robinson

Howdy! I’m John Robinson from Levittown, New York. I am a mechanical engineer for 15 years and already had an established car repair company. I developed a personal relationship with cars since I was a kid. I always love the sounds and smell emitted by a car or truck and even at construction machinery. Since then I have been married but my love for cars only grew.