How is an accident victim compensated for being disabled in Gonzales?
Gonzales, LA – Many serious accidents will leave victims with an injury that affects their ability to function for the rest of their life. Those with disabilities can attempt to make the person or business responsible for their losses pay them. The victim and their attorney can argue for any specific financial harms that are tied to an ability to work, along with other issues that may affect their mental health and quality of life. All of these losses can be factored into the amount of damages available through an injury lawsuit.
Medical costs
The most obvious and immediate costs that are associated with a disability are related to medical treatment and hospitalization. The victim may need to be rushed to a hospital right after their accident, they may need to stay and be treated by doctors, and their condition may require continued care to recover. All of these aspects of treatment and recovery can be very costly, and those costs may extend for years into the future or even be permanent.
Career losses and future lost income
While a person is injured and goes through the initial recovery period, they will probably not be able to work at all. After this time, the person may be able to return to work in a limited role, they may have to switch careers, or they may not be able to work at all if they are totally disabled. All of these short term and future losses can be summarized in the argument for damages from the defendant.
Pain and suffering
The last category of damages related to the victim’s state are for non-economic damages related to pain and suffering. While this is not tied to any specific aspect of the victim’s costs, their attorney can argue that the combined effects on the person’s quality of life are significant. This means that the person can be compensated for mental health issues, physical pain, and the loss of their ability to function as before the incident.
Settlement negotiations
It is likely that an injury lawsuit will end with a settlement rather than a trial. This is due to concerns about efficiency, along with minimizing legal fees and other costs to the client. The victim’s attorney will present the medical costs, career losses, and pain and suffering damages necessary for compensation during this time. Ideally, the attorney can argue for all or most of this amount to be awarded to the victim.
Assistance from a local accident attorney
Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf is an experienced personal injury firm that works with clients in Gonzales and other parts of Louisiana. They are available to meet with anyone who needs advice after an accident.
Firm contact info:
Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf
3960 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
225-343-2205
www.mlhlaw.com
