Getting injured in an accident of any sort can have far-reaching effects throughout all aspects of your life. Some of these effects are financial, like substantial medical bills and lost time at work, while others are more personal, like effects on your mental health and limitations in your day-to-day life. When your injuries have been caused by someone else’s negligence, a personal injury claim can help you recover compensation for all of these things. Understanding the different types of damages available can help you figure out how much compensation you may be able to expect.
Economic Damages
Economic damages provide compensation for any losses you have suffered as a result of your injury that have a measurable financial value. Most commonly, this includes compensation for medical expenses related to your care and treatment. You may be entitled to compensation for the care you have already received, as well as care that you are likely to need in the future. Covered medical expenses may include hospital and ambulance bills, surgery, medication, therapy, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
Economic damages can also cover any lost wages or income resulting from your injuries, including missed work time during your recovery and for decreased earning potential due to disability or disfigurement. If you suffered property damage in the same incident in which you were injured, you may also be entitled to compensation for those losses.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages provide compensation for the effects of your injuries that do not have a clear monetary value. The most common non-economic damages address an injury victim’s pain and suffering, which includes both physical pain that interferes with the person’s life and well-being, as well as mental anguish caused by the injuries. Non-economic damages are also available when an injury victim has experienced permanent scarring or disfigurement, and when the injuries have damaged personal relationships.
Punitive Damages
In Illinois, punitive damages are available in limited cases. These are not meant to compensate the injury victim for any particular losses, but to penalize the at-fault party and discourage similar incidents in the future. A person seeking punitive damages must demonstrate the liable party acted with “evil motive” or “reckless or outrageous indifference” to other people’s safety.
Contact a Bensenville Personal Injury Lawyer
At [[title]], we have over 30 years of experience representing injury victims. We can help you determine what damages are available in your case and the appropriate amount of compensation to pursue. We will be strong advocates on your behalf to help you get the compensation you need. Contact our Cook County personal injury attorneys today at [[phone]] and schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073500050K2-1115.2
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073500050K2-1115.05