Types of Damages You Can Claim
1. Medical Expenses
Medical expenses are often the highest cost after a single-vehicle accident. This category includes costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, prescription medications, and even future medical treatments.
Example:
If you swerved to avoid hitting a deer and crashed into a tree, leading to a broken leg, you could claim compensation for the immediate costs of your ER visit and the ongoing expenses for rehabilitation sessions.
2. Property Damage
Damage to your vehicle and any personal belongings inside it, such as electronics, can also be claimed. If the crash occurred due to external factors beyond your control—like a faulty guardrail or poor road maintenance—you may have grounds to seek compensation from the responsible entity.
Example:
Suppose a poorly maintained road caused you to lose control and crash. Government entities responsible for road upkeep could be held liable for the damages to your car and possessions.
3. Lost Wages
After an accident, injuries may keep you away from work for an extended period. You can claim compensation for the income you lose during your recovery.
Example:
A truck driver who suffers a severe wrist injury in a single-vehicle accident may be unable to drive or handle their regular responsibilities for months. Their lost wages and even diminished earning capacity if they cannot continue the same type of work can be part of the claim.
4. Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering cover the physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from an accident. This type of damage is non-economic, meaning it doesn’t have a fixed monetary value and requires careful calculation.
Example:
If you’re dealing with chronic back pain or PTSD from a collision, you could seek compensation under pain and suffering damages. Oklahoma law considers factors like the severity of your injuries and their impact on your daily life when evaluating these claims.
5. Other Recoverable Damages
You may also be entitled to compensation for additional costs, such as:
- Loss of Consortium: If the accident negatively affects your relationship with your spouse, this damage category may apply.
- Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident leaves permanent scars or results in a disability, the financial award may cover these consequences.
- Household Services: If your injuries limit your ability to perform everyday chores, the cost of hiring help could be claimed.