Crash! An accident sends your world spinning. Panic, fear, and adrenaline rush. But now—damage! How are these calculated? Hold tight as we peel back the layers of damages and their indeterminate influence on your potential compensation. If you have been involved in a car crash in Washington State, it is in your best interest to understand how damages are calculated. At Oshan and Associates, our experienced personal injury attorneys in Seattle, Washington are dedicated to guiding you through the complexities of the recovery process. Types of Damages in Auto Accident Cases In personal injury law specifically to Washington State:
Economic Damages – refer to quantifiable financial losses that a victim incurs due to an accident. These damages can be calculated based on actual expenses or lost income, making them easier to quantify. Common examples include but not limited to:
- Medical Expenses: This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, medication costs,
rehabilitation, and any future medical care required as a result of the accident.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may claim compensation for lost income. This can include both past wages lost due to the accident and future earning potential if the injuries affect your ability to work long-term.
- Property Damage: Costs associated with repairing or replacing your vehicle (or any other damaged property) are also considered economic damages.
Non-Economic Damages – refer to the more subjective aspects of a victim’s suffering. These damages are not easily quantifiable, as they pertain to the pain and suffering endured as a result of the accident. Examples include but not limited to:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and the resulting injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the accident impacts your ability to engage in activities you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
- Emotional Distress: Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues as a result of the accident.
Factors in determining damage calculations
Severity of Injuries and damage to the vehicles involved: The adjuster will most definitely take in consideration the damage to the vehicles involved in the accident as well as the extent of your injuries which will significantly impact your claim. More severe injuries result in higher medical expenses, longer recovery times, and greater pain and suffering.
- Duration of Treatment: The length of time you require medical treatment and rehabilitation will influence the total amount of your economic damages.
- Impact on Daily Life: If your injuries prevent you from participating in daily activities, work, or hobbies, these factors will be considered by the adjuster of the insurance company when calculating your non-economic damages.
- Insurance Coverage: The amount of insurance coverage available can affect your recovery. Understanding both your policy limits and the at-fault party’s coverage is essential in determining potential compensation.
- Comparative Negligence: Washington State follows a comparative negligence system, meaning that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Steps you can take after a car accident in Washington State:
- Seek medical attention:
- Document everything related to the accident.
- Consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney that is local to Seattle Washington.
Please note a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Do not accept quick settlements, insurance companies may offer fast settlements, but these often fall short of covering all your damages. Consult with your attorney before accepting any offers.
Calculating your auto accident damages in Washington State can be complicated, however, understanding how these damages are determined is beneficial for getting maximum recovery. At Oshan and Associates, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the intricacies of personal injury claims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. If you have been involved in an automobile accident in Washington State, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team for a consultation. Your recovery is our priority, and we are here to help you every step of the way.
Article written by: Evan Oshan
Seattle Accident Lawyer Evan Oshan Has Been Fighting for The Injured for Over 2 Decades!
Evan Oshan has experience working with all types of catastrophic injuries claims in the state of Washington including but not limited to brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, truck accidents, and more. Oshan & Associates, P.C. obtained multiple gag order confidential settlements with hard line negotiation achieving success in settlements and favorable verdicts.
