Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident
Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation for their damages. These compensations fall into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. These include:
Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitation. If your injuries require ongoing care, you can also claim compensation for future medical treatments.
Lost Wages: If the accident leaves you unable to work temporarily or permanently, you can recover compensation for the wages you lost during your recovery. In cases of severe injuries, you may also be compensated for loss of earning capacity, which covers the income you would have earned in the future had you not been injured.
Property Damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for the less tangible effects of the accident:
Pain and Suffering: These damages cover the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. Severe injuries often lead to long-term suffering, which increases the potential payout.
Emotional Distress: Compensation may also be available for mental health issues such as anxiety or PTSD that result from the accident.
Future Losses
When seeking compensation for a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to account for future losses. These include ongoing medical expenses for injuries requiring long-term care, such as rehabilitation or home health services, and lost future earnings due to diminished earning capacity.