Drunk driving accidents can be devastating. They may lead to severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. However, if you are a victim of a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to claim damages related to the incident. Grasping the different types of recoverable damages can help you secure financial compensation.
Medical Expenses
One of the primary damages you can recover after a drunk driving accident is medical expenses. These include the costs for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary follow-up treatments.
It’s important to keep detailed records of all medical bills and related expenses. Future medical expenses can also be claimed if ongoing treatment or long-term care is necessary due to the accident.
Lost Wages
If the accident causes injuries that hinder you from working long-term, you can recover lost wages. This includes the income you have already lost and potential future earnings.
Providing proof of your regular earnings and documentation from your employer will support your claim for lost wages. Victims can also seek compensation for diminished earning capacity if they can no longer perform the job.
Property Damage
Drunk driving accidents often result in significant damage to vehicles and other property. You may be able to recover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle, as well as any other property damaged in the accident.
Property can include personal items within the vehicle at the time of the accident. Obtaining repair estimates, receipts, and documentation of the property’s value before the accident will help your claim.
Punitive Damages
These damages aim to penalize the at-fault party and discourage similar behavior in the future. While not awarded in every case, they can significantly increase the total compensation you receive. Punitive damages are particularly relevant in drunk driving cases as a means of addressing the reckless disregard for the safety of others exhibited by the drunk driver.
Book Your Legal Consultation in Waldorf, MD
Recovering from a DUI incident involves more than just physical healing; it requires comprehensive financial compensation to cover medical expenses and lost wages.
Contact us at 301-264-6072 and schedule a consultation with our attorney, Patrick D. Troxler. If you or a loved one has been affected by a drunk driving accident, you should seek legal assistance.