If you've been injured in an accident in Illinois, it's important to understand the types of damages you may be entitled to and how to calculate them. This guide covers some of the more important things you need to know about calculating medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Visit our website to learn more about Illinois personal injury laws and how our attorneys can help your case.
Types of Damages Available in Illinois Personal Injury and Car Accident Cases
In Illinois, personal injury and car accident victims may be entitled to various types of damages, including:
Medical expenses: This can include costs associated with emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and other medical costs. It can also include future medical expenses if the injuries sustained are permanent or will require future treatment.
Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover lost wages as well as loss of earning capacity if the injuries sustained will prevent you from returning to work or doing the same work.
Pain and suffering: This type of damages is intended to compensate you for the physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by your injuries, and it can be calculated by taking into account factors such as the severity and duration of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and any long-term consequences.
Punitive damages: These damages may be awarded in cases where the defendant's conduct was particularly egregious, and are meant to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future. This can happen in cases of drunk driving or reckless driving.
Calculating Economic Damages in Illinois Personal Injury and Car Accident Cases
Economic damages refer to the monetary losses that you incur as a result of your injuries. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, and lost earning capacity. To calculate these damages, you'll need to gather documentation such as medical bills, pay stubs, and expert witness testimony to establish the full extent of your economic losses. Illinois has a no-fault system for car accident cases.
Calculating Non-Economic Damages in Illinois Personal Injury and Car Accident Cases
Non-economic damages refer to the non-monetary losses that you incur as a result of your injuries. These can include things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. To calculate these damages, you'll need to provide evidence of your injuries and how they have affected your quality of life. A personal injury lawyer can assist in this process. A good way to estimate these damages can be to multiply the economic damages by a factor of 1 to 5, depending on the severity of the injuries. However, it's important to note that the final calculation of non-economic damages can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case and the discretion of the jury or judge.
Maximizing Your Settlement in Illinois Personal Injury and Car Accident Cases
To maximize your settlement in an Illinois personal injury or car accident case, it's important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process. A lawyer can also help you gather and present the evidence you need to win your case and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. It's important to document all the damages, including photos of the injuries, medical records, and the expenses you've incurred as this will provide strong evidence for your claim.
How To Choose The Right Personal Injury Lawyer in Illinois
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer is a crucial step to getting the best outcome for your personal injury case. Look for a lawyer who specializes in personal injury and car accident case and has a proven track record of success. Additionally, it may be beneficial to find a lawyer who has experience working with insurance companies, like the Bloomington Illinois personal injury attorneys at Imeri Rogers, so they can anticipate their tactics and better negotiate a fair settlement for you.