When someone suffers from a personal injury, they may be able to file a lawsuit to receive compensation for their damages. Damages include all losses incurred by the victim in the accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and physical and emotional pain. However, determining the types of damages can be confusing. In this article, we will explore the various types of damages that can be included in a personal injury claim in Oklahoma.
Table of Contents
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the direct costs incurred by the victim as a result of the accident. These are typically easily quantifiable and can include:
Medical Expenses
This includes any and all medical expenses related to the injury, such as hospitalization, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages
If the victim is unable to work due to their injury, they can seek compensation for lost wages. This can also include any lost earning capacity if the injury affects their ability to earn income in the future.
Property Damage
If any personal property is damaged or destroyed in the accident, such as a car, bike, or clothing, the victim can seek compensation for repairs or replacement.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are less tangible than economic damages and can include:
Pain and Suffering
This includes physical and emotional pain and suffering as a result of the injury. This can include chronic pain, discomfort, and inconvenience as well as anxiety, depression, and mental anguish.
Loss of Enjoyment
If an injury reduces a person’s ability to enjoy activities they previously enjoyed, they may be able to seek compensation for their loss of enjoyment.
Loss of Consortium
This is compensation for the loss of companionship, care, and comfort that a spouse or loved one can no longer provide as a result of the injury.
Punitive Damages
The last kind of damages you could seek is Punitive Damages. These are awarded in cases where the defendant acted especially recklessly or maliciously. They are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to punish the defendant for their actions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’ve suffered from a personal injury in Oklahoma, you are entitled to compensation for your damages. The types of damages you can seek will depend on the specifics of your case. It is best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the process and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.