The monetary damages you recover after an accident are intended to compensate you for the financial expenses and losses caused by the at-fault driver’s negligence. Medical bills are not the only costs you might incur and not the only ones you can recover, so you do not have to be physically injured in a car accident to get compensation.
If a personal injury lawyer represents you, they can help you seek additional forms of compensation, including repairing or replacing your car and possibly pain and suffering or other non-economic damages. Furthermore, you should not assume you are not injured without seeking medical attention, which might uncover injuries that may not be immediately noticeable.
Establishing the At-Fault Driver’s Negligence
To pursue any damages after a car accident, you must prove the other involved driver’s negligent or reckless actions caused the collision. Evidence that supports the other driver’s financial liability may include:
- Car accident report
- Witness statements
- Accident scene photos
- Accident scene video
- Estimates for car repairs
- Estimates of vehicle value
- Diminished vehicle value
Most car accident cases are resolved with a financial settlement when the evidence indicates fault. Your lawyer can collect and organize your evidence and submit it to the at-fault driver’s insurer to prove your right to recover damages.
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Property Damage You Can Recover After a Car Accident
Statista reports that 4.8 million car accidents in 2019 resulted in property damage and no physical injuries to the vehicle’s occupants. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), you do not have to accept the first offer you receive to repair or replace your damaged vehicle.
The car accident lawyer representing you will fight for your case’s best possible financial outcome. They will ensure your vehicle receives an accurate valuation and can help you request compensation for a rental car while your car is inoperable. They may also help you request damages for any wages you lose when the aftermath of the accident and your loss of transportation prevent you from working.
Proving the Value of Your Damaged Vehicle
To ensure you can restore your car to its pre-accident condition, you do not have to rely on the insurance company’s estimation of its costs or use the repair shop they recommend. You can choose to get a repair estimate from a shop you trust.
If your vehicle is damaged beyond repair, you do not have to accept the insurance company’s assessment of its value. Your compensation can also include any improvements you made to your vehicle that might have increased its value. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and the at-fault party’s obligations.
Car Accident Injuries That Might Not Be Readily Apparent
Even if you are mobile and do not feel injured in the immediate aftermath of an accident, you might still have injuries related to the collision. Hidden injuries can include:
- Internal bleeding
- Soft tissue injuries
- Whiplash
- Concussion
Do not assume you are not injured without seeking medical care and attention to assess your physical condition. However, a lack of injuries does not mean you cannot recover damages from the at-fault driver.
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Can I Request Pain and Suffering Damages if I Was Not Physically Injured?
The trauma of an accident can last for a long time. While it is possible to recover pain and suffering after a car accident, it can be difficult to prove your right to these damages without legal guidance and support.
You may be able to receive damages for pain and suffering if you experienced mental and emotional pain and suffering. For example, you may have developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the trauma of the accident. A personal injury lawyer can clarify your right to this additional form of compensation.
Do I Need a Lawyer if I Was Not Physically Injured?
Fighting to recover damages for the emotional stress that often follows a car accident is only one reason to hire a personal injury attorney to represent you. A lawyer may also benefit your case by:
- Calculating your economic and non-economic damages
- Proving the at-fault driver’s negligence
- Gathering documents and evidence
- Conducting a comprehensive investigation
- Locating and interviewing accident witnesses
- Handling all communication related to your case
- Completing and submitting insurance claim forms
Your lawyer can also negotiate on your behalf or take the at-fault driver to court to ensure you are compensated for your losses.
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Call for a Free Review of Your Car Accident Case
You do not have to be physically injured to get compensation in a car accident. If your property was damaged, a car accident lawyer can help you seek the costs of repairs and ensure they file your case on time. You may also qualify for pain and suffering damages.
Learn more about our commitment to helping car accident victims recover all appropriate damages. Contact our case review team at Bressman Law to start preparing your case today.
Call or text (614) 538-1116 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
