1. Economic Damages
Economic damages are designed to compensate for measurable financial losses stemming directly from the accident. These damages are often the easiest to calculate because they come with clear documentation like receipts, medical bills, and pay stubs.
Medical Expenses
After a head-on collision, medical expenses are often the most significant economic damage. These may include:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgery and medical procedures
- Medication costs
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Assistive devices like wheelchairs or braces
- Future medical expenses (e.g., ongoing treatments or long-term care)
For example, if your injuries require months of physical therapy, you could claim reimbursement for all associated costs and even anticipate future sessions with a doctor’s estimates.
Lost Wages
Serious injuries often lead to missed workdays or, in some cases, an inability to return to work entirely. You can claim for wages lost during recovery as well as diminished earning capacity if the accident affects your ability to earn income in the future. This is particularly relevant if your injuries result in a permanent disability.
Property Damage
Your car and any belongings damaged in the collision are eligible for compensation. This typically covers repairs or, in some cases, the full market value of the vehicle if it’s declared a total loss.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Additional costs directly related to the accident, such as travel to doctor’s appointments, childcare expenses, or modifications to your home due to a disability, can also be part of economic damages.