TraceyBrewer10
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When you file a lawsuit after a vehicle collision, the goal is to receive "damages"—a legal term for financial compensation. However, calculating the true value of a claim involves more than just adding up hospital bills. A car accident lawyer works to identify all the different types of damages you are eligible for, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in your pursuit of justice.
Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
Economic damages are quantifiable costs like surgery fees, medication, and property damage. Non-economic damages are more subjective, covering things like "pain and suffering," loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress. A skilled car accident lawyer knows how to assign a dollar value to these intangible losses, which often make up the largest portion of a settlement.Comprehensive Guidance from Utah Car Accident Attorneys
Were you or a loved one hurt in a car crash in Utah? Let our car accident lawyer at Moxie Law Group help. Our Utah Car Accident Attorneys use expert witnesses and medical specialists to prove the long-term impact of your injuries, ensuring that your settlement covers your needs both now and in the future.Punitive Damages in Extreme Cases
In rare instances where the at-fault driver was particularly negligent—such as in a DUI or high-speed drag racing case—you may be eligible for punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar behavior. Your attorney will determine if the circumstances of your crash warrant pursuing this additional form of compensation.How Liability Affects Your Settlement
Utah follows a "comparative negligence" rule. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your settlement could be reduced.- If you are 10% at fault, your award is reduced by 10%.
- If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
- A car accident lawyer works to minimize your assigned fault.
- Detailed accident reconstruction is often used to prove the other driver's liability.
Long-Term Financial Planning After an Injury
Serious injuries can require a lifetime of care. Your legal team must account for:- Future surgeries and physical therapy sessions.
- Home modifications for accessibility if needed.
- The cost of long-term assistive devices.
- Loss of future earning capacity if you can no longer work.