After a significant motor vehicle accident, you may be worried about how to navigate the complicated landscape of a personal injury lawsuit in Kentucky. Many factors contribute to any potential settlement or award that you may receive, so knowledgeable attorneys are an invaluable resource.
Types of losses
In car accident claims, there are two primary categories of losses that make up the total damages for your incident. Economic losses are those that are easier to evaluate and place a concrete figure on. Medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs and even home modification are all forms of economic losses. Especially if you work in a job without paid leave or health insurance, these expenses can quickly snowball.
Non-economic losses are much harder to calculate. Potential sources are:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Reduced quality of life
It is in those non-economic loss categories that insurance companies do everything possible to reduce their expenses. That’s why it is critical to work with an experienced personal injury who is familiar with all aspects of the litigation process.
How a lawyer may help
Insurance companies make their profits by trying to avoid large payouts. Settlement offers are initially fractions of what you deserve, and these companies hire experts to try to debunk or devalue your claims. An experienced lawyer may identify the tricks these companies rely on and help you more fairly estimate your losses.
Short-term versus long-term costs
It is also important to realize that your costs may not occur immediately. An injury that requires long-term care or rehabilitation means that your costs will continue to grow as time passes. Insurance companies will attempt to undervalue that expense, so your attorney may work to ensure that you stand the best chance of recovering everything you deserve.
Motor vehicle accidents with personal injuries do not always end in trials, but even during the initial claim process, your attorney’s communication and negotiating help might result in a better offer than you may have received otherwise. Being educated on the process is the best way to prepare for filing your claim.
