The victims of truck accidents will often find themselves shocked by the expenses they face in the aftermath of the collision. Even minor injuries can result in the inability to work, while serious or life threatening injuries might force a victim to change the rest of their life.
Luckily, there is some degree of legal recourse available to the victims of truck accidents. To ensure you recover maximum damages, it is important that you speak with a qualified auto accident lawyer, like an auto accident lawyer in Des Moines, IA.
Medical Expenses
As you contemplate your claim, take a moment to go over your current expenditures associated with the accident. Consider:
- A single broken limb carries an average cost of $3,000 (without surgery).
- Victims who have had a spinal cord injuries may face medical costs surpassing one million dollars in the first year.
- A traumatic brain injury may cost $600,000 to $2,000,000 over the course of the victim’s life.
- An average limb amputation costs between $20,000 and $80,000.
- Ambulance transportation may cost up to $1,500 (not including air transportation, if necessary).
- One day in the hospital might cost $3,000 to $4,000 or more.
Other costs to consider may include:
- The ER bill
- Tests and scans
- Surgeries
- Durable medical equipment
- Long term care
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Psychological therapy
- Home modifications
- Vehicular modifications
- In home care
The above are only some of the medical costs that may accumulate after a truck accident. In addition to these costs, you will likely have been unable to work for a period of time. Therefore, you may have significant lost wages. A truck accident lawyer might consider:
- How long were you out of work?
- Did you miss time from work because of medical appointments?
- Were you no longer able to do your job because of the injuries?
- Have you lost any earning potential?
Your lost wages and loss of income can be included in a claim. A good truck accident lawyer will consider all of the above economic damages to determine what your total losses are. Also included in your claim may be compensation for your pain and suffering, the inability to participate in former activities, emotional anguish, embarrassment, loss of consortium, and more.
Call An Auto Accident Attorney to Learn More About the Value of Your Case
Without knowing the specific details of your case, and performing an investigation of what happened, an auto accident lawyer will not be able to tell you what your case is worth. Furthermore, no lawyer should promise you any amount, as this is not possible to predict.
If your truck accident left you with serious or life changing injuries, you should consult an auto accident lawyer to explore your legal options and the factors that may go into your claim.
Thanks to Johnston Martineau, LLP for their insight into what can be included in a truck accident claim.