Car accidents happen for many reasons. Following are some of the common causes of car accidents:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol
- Violating traffic rules
- Speeding
- Sleep-deprived driving
From the above list, you can understand that one common factor among these causes is negligence. Negligence is the root of these common causes of car accidents.
If you are a victim of a car accident, the first thing you need to do after getting medical attention is to speak with a lawyer. Things like determining liability for a car accident require the expertise of experienced lawyers.
Without their help, recovering from the losses you incurred from the car accident is close to impossible.
Car accident victims sustain two types of losses:
- Economic losses
- Non-economic losses
Economic losses are the expenses the victim incurs as a result of the accident. This type of damage is quantifiable and fairly easy to claim compared to non-economic losses.
Non-Economic Losses
Non-economic losses cover the intangible losses that you experience as a result of the accident. It is quite hard to prove or calculate non-economic losses since it is a personal experience. Following are the different types of non-economic losses a car accident victim will sustain:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental stress
- Loss of quality of life
- Loss of companionship
Pain and Suffering
When claiming economic losses, you will receive compensation for the expenses you incurred to treat your injuries. But what about the pain you felt because of your injuries?
You can claim compensation for the pain you felt due to the injury in the name of pain and suffering. Keep a personal journal and document the pain you feel due to the injury. It is the best way to prove pain and suffering.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Some accidents damage the victim permanently. In such cases, the victim may not indulge in activities they once enjoyed. For example, imagine a person who loves surfing and loses their leg in a car accident. They won’t be able to participate in surfing due to this injury.
This type of loss is considered a loss of enjoyment of life.
Mental Stress
Mental discomfort is a common consequence of car accidents. After a car accident, you will have to deal with lots of paperwork. You will be constantly approached by the insurance company in addition to the paperwork.
In addition to the above things, you will face financial pressure due to your financial losses. This all can add great stress.
Loss of Quality of Life
Disability is a real threat in car accidents. People with permanent disabilities will not be able to do their daily tasks. You will need help from others to do the activities you did on your own in the past.
You will need help even to go to the restroom. This sudden change in your life can impact your mental health too. This loss is known as the loss of quality of life.
Loss of Companionship
In the worst-case scenario, car accidents can result in deaths. Losing a loved one is very hard, especially when the death was caused by an accident. The surviving family will experience mental stress and trauma due to the death of their loved one.
Losing a loved one leads to many problems, like a lack of intimate relationships. You can claim compensation for this type of loss too.
Final Thoughts
Getting compensation for non-economic losses significantly increases your total compensation. However, claiming compensation for non-economic losses is not as simple as claiming compensation for economic losses. You will need the help of an experienced car accident lawyer to prove and obtain compensation for non-economic losses.
