Injury Law Firm Lakeland, FL
When you are in an accident that leads to injuries, you need the help of a Lakeland, Florida injury law firm like David & Philpot, P.L. Accidents often lead to physical injuries. If you are lucky, then the injuries are minor and full recovery is possible and quick. However, a personal injury lawyer Lakeland, FL trusts knows that in some unfortunate situations, injuries can be more permanent, life-threatening, or life-altering. Regardless of the extent of the injury, a victim or plaintiff has a right to seek compensation or restitution for their suffering in the form of damages. When it comes to personal injury claims, there are typically three types of damages: (1) compensatory, (2) general and (3) punitive. Although, not every claim will meet the requirements for all three. Therefore, to better prepare for any potential claim, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with each damage type to determine where your injuries and suit may fit. To get more information about each type, you can contact our injury law firm in Lakeland, FL today.
1. Compensatory
As the name implies, compensatory damages refer to direct compensation for injuries. These damages typically relate to provable expenses. For example, medical bills, lost wages, repair costs, and any other costs that were a direct result of the accident or injury. Hiring an attorney from our personal injury law firm in Lakeland is the best way to calculate these costs because they typically know what counts toward such damages. However, in general, if you have documentation for the expense and how it relates to the incident, then it may fall under this category.
2. General
General damages are often combined with compensatory damages. However, whereas compensatory damages are more concrete, general damages are more abstract, requiring explanation and likely expert testimony. For example, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and mental anguish are all considered general damages but they are difficult to prove. While you may seek psychological treatment after an accident because of the trauma, a defense attorney will likely argue that the treatment was either a result of some other event or a ploy. Therefore, your attorney will probably hire an expert to validate your claims.
3. Punitive
Last, punitive damages are used to punish the defendant. These damages are not common in personal injury claims because they require proof of intent. Most personal injuries are the result of an accident and reckless negligence, not intent.
Get the Help You Need With Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Lakeland, Florida!
While most accidents lack the intention of harm, people still get hurt. Those injuries can severely affect the lives and livelihood of the victim, and they deserve compensation or restitution. Therefore, if you suffered injuries because of someone’s reckless behavior, then contact a local personal injury attorney for guidance on how to move forward with your claim. While you have the option to go it alone, a licensed attorney will bring the experience and knowledge necessary for getting the settlement or verdict you deserve. Reach out to David & Philpot, P.L., a Lakeland, FL injury law firm today.