Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
Accidents happen with no advance warning, and no one is prepared for the damages and injuries that result from someone’s negligence. The immediate need for medical attention, the initial time lost from work, and the reimbursement for property damage are tangible items eligible for repayment. The pain and suffering you may incur are more subjective, but calculable.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to the oversight and fault of another, the immediate focus is on emergency medical attention. But once the initial injury has been attended to, what next? Obtaining the guidance of experienced legal representatives at
The lawyers at Kuharski, Levitz & Giovinazzo, Esq. ensure you have your best chance at a fair settlement.
What is a Personal Injury Claim?
When you incur an injury due to someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t be the one who has to pay. You’re already suffering physically and emotionally, the added financial hardship can really impede your ability to recover in a timely manner.
Obtaining compensation for a personal injury is the right of the victim. To get to the point you’re able to ask for damages, liability needs to be established. Proving fault can be an extensive process involving evidence of negligence on the defendant’s end. Choosing the right attorney to represent you and build a strong case is of the utmost importance.
The process of submitting a claim involves completing the required legal documents and submitting evidence to solidify your case. Once liability is determined, the next step is to calculate the damages owed to you. There are both economic and non-economic types of reimbursement that you are eligible for. A skilled attorney can work to determine a fair and just amount.
What Are Economic Damages?
Economic damages refer to the typical reimbursement many initially think of when incurring an injury. Compensation includes current and future medical bills, lost income from time off of work, and repair and replacement of property damaged in your accident. It’s vital that every receipt is retained, pay stubs to determine income saved, and every medical appointment is documented.
Economic damages tend to be straightforward and are easily calculated, they are tangible and cover verifiable losses. Once liability is established, financial rewards for these expenses are most commonly approved in negotiations or a judge or jury if it comes to that.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more difficult to calculate, this is where obtaining legal representation becomes particularly important. These losses are not justified by receipts and pay stubs, they are emotional in nature and subjective. Each case is unique in the pain and suffering incurred by the victim.
Non-economic damages encompass suffering from emotional distress, disability or disfigurement, loss of companionship, a damaged reputation, and loss of enjoyment in life. Restitution for these hardships is subject to strict guidelines that vary between jurisdictions. Obtaining legal counsel well-versed in Staten Island law is imperative.
Choosing the right attorney with the knowledge and resources to solidify your claim places you in the best position to receive the compensation you deserve. Some states have set limits on the amount of non-economic damages one can be awarded to prevent amounts from being too excessive. We know the New York legalities and keep current with the complex mandates.
Claiming Compensation Economic and Non-Economic Damages
When suffering from the trauma of a personal injury, the insurance company might be quick to contact you to negotiate a settlement. Without the proper legal representation, you may not realize that what they are offering is not sufficient to cover your future medical costs or to compensate you for pain and suffering.
Dealing with insurance companies who are skilled in downplaying your damages is a complex task. By connecting with an attorney with years of experience in personal injury law, you leave the documentation, gathering of evidence, and negotiations to us. We will submit your claim and follow it through from beginning to end keeping you informed every step of the way.
Calculate Your Damages with a Lawyer
Kuharski, Levitz & Giovinazzo, Esq provides focused personal injury representation for those injured in Staten Island and the surrounding areas. We will individualize your case and put all of your damages together to get you the total compensation that you deserve. Our extensive experience in personal injury and knowledge of New York law position us for success.
Connect with us today by calling 718-448-1600 or by completing the online form below for your free consultation and let us lead you on your road to recovery.