If you have been involved in a car accident in Atlanta, sometimes it is hard to get a fair settlement. Filing an insurance claim and determining how much you deserve might be stressful after the accident.
It would be wise to seek the advice of experienced car crash attorneys in Atlanta. They can handle your case and find all the potential sources of recovery. Before accepting a car accident settlement, ensure it contains the following damages.
1. Medical Expenses
Keep a list of all the treatments you received following your accident, including, but not limited to: emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and follow-up doctor visits. Obtain itemized statements of these bills. Consider future treatments or continuing care you may need due to your injury.
Don’t forget to include the costs of prescription medication and any over-the-counter drugs you used while recovering. Keep your receipts; also consider how long you may need to take medication as part of your injury.
2. Lost Wages
Calculate how much you lost in income because of not being able to work after your accident. You may want to get an accountant involved to help with this. Make sure you include regular salary as well as overtime or bonuses. Gather pay stubs and letters from your employer for evidence of this.
Do not forget lost benefits that may include retirement contributions, health insurance premiums, and other fringe benefits you might have enjoyed; this alone could add to quite a chunk in financial recovery.
3. Property Damage
Ensure your settlement covers the full cost to repair your vehicle or, if it’s deemed a total loss, the fair market value of your car before the accident. Obtain estimates from reputable repair shops to support your claim.
Include any personal items damaged in the accident, such as electronics (phones, laptops) or belongings in your vehicle. Document their value with receipts or photographs.
4. Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages compensate you for the physical discomfort endured due to the accident. Keep a journal detailing your pain levels, treatment, and how your injuries affect daily life, as this can help quantify your claim.
Consider the emotional impacts, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you’ve sought therapy or counseling, include those costs and any related documentation to strengthen your claim.
5. Loss of Enjoyment of Life
If your injuries have hindered your ability to participate in hobbies, sports, or family activities, you may claim loss of enjoyment of life. Document specific activities you can no longer enjoy and consider how these changes have affected your overall quality of life.
6. Loss of Consortium
This type of claim is relevant if the accident has impacted your relationship with your spouse. It covers the loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy. Discuss the emotional and physical effects with your attorney to ensure these factors are included in your settlement.
7. Other Economic Damages
If you had to use alternative transportation (like rental cars or rideshares) while your vehicle was being repaired, be sure to document these expenses. Keep receipts and records of usage.
If your injuries require assistance with daily activities (like bathing, cooking, or cleaning), track these expenses. This can include hiring professional help or paying family members who assisted you.
Important Considerations
- Documentation is Key: Keeping thorough records of all expenses, medical treatments, and impacts resulting from the accident is crucial. This includes not just bills but also logs of lost wages, pain levels, and how your daily life has changed.
- Consult an Attorney: Navigating settlements can be tricky. An experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure that your settlement covers all potential damages, provides valuable insight into local laws, and advocates on your behalf during negotiations.
- Don’t Rush the Process: Insurance companies may pressure you to settle quickly. Take your time to evaluate the full extent of your damages and understand your rights. A rushed settlement could leave you with inadequate compensation.
Accepting a car accident settlement in Atlanta involves careful consideration of various damages. Make sure your settlement reflects the full scope of your losses. By being thorough and possibly enlisting legal help, you can secure the compensation you deserve.
