Far too many South Carolina residents have been injured or killed in auto accidents over the years. Those who have suffered the negative consequences of such incidents have every right to question if any damages sustained can be recovered. The simple truth is that, those who have suffered injuries or lost love ones in car accidents, as the result of someone else’s negligence, can turn to legal remedies to seek compensation
After a serious accident, the losses one might suffer can be quite severe. These may be financial, physical or even emotional detriments, that can hurt the victim, his or her family members and — in the event of fatality — the loved ones of the victim. Common losses suffered after an accident include:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of consortium
Funeral and medical expenses are pretty self explanatory; whereas, claiming damages for pain and suffering, lost wages and loss of consortium may seem a little more involved. Pain and suffering is defined as any mental and/or physical distress experienced as the result of an injury. Lost wages may cover a wide range of issues including the temporary inability to work, long-term diminished working capacity and even compensation for potential future earnings of a deceased victim. Finally, the loss of consortium would be filed by an uninjured spouse for the loss of companionship and/or affection.
Car accidents can affect those residing in South Carolina and elsewhere in a number of ways. Every situation is different, and the level of damages experienced is unique to every victim and/or his or her family members. Legal assistance is available to help determine what type of losses may be claimed for any specific case, to file all appropriate petitions and to litigate claims in civil court. With the right help, it is possible to achieve compensation for all damages sustained that are deemed recoverable according to applicable state laws.
Source: FindLaw, “What Kinds of Damages May I Claim for Car Accident Injuries?“, May 19, 2015