In 2018, about 1,276 U.S. workers riding or driving a motor vehicle lost their lives in a work-related accident. Being involved in an on-the-job auto accident can be an overwhelming and painful experience for both the victim and their loved ones. Such accidents can cause minor to severe injuries, temporary or permanent disability, or even death.
If you sustained an injury in an auto accident at work, you are eligible to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Victims of work-related auto accidents can file personal injury claims or workers’ compensation benefits. There are numerous damages you can recover during such an incident, and we’ve listed a few of them below.
Table of Contents
Property Damages
Auto accidents can damage both vehicles and property. If this happens to you, you can seek compensation through a property damage claim. This is separate from the claim that would be made if there were bodily injuries or wrongful death.
If the vehicle involved in the accident was severely damaged and needed repairs at an auto body shop, the repair bill will be included in your claim. You will need to provide proof of injury and damage to the vehicle, however. A knowledgeable car crash injury lawyer in Clearwater can help you seek fair financial compensation for injuries and property damages.
Medical Expenses
Medical bills, which usually include hospitalization, diagnosis, and treatment costs, can be expensive, especially for an extended period. If a workplace accident is responsible for your hospitalization, then you can claim medical expenses damages. You can also seek compensation for your future medical treatments.
Lost Wages
If you suffer a significant injury during an on-the-job auto accident, you will naturally have to take some time off work to recover. Unfortunately, this could mean missing out on wages and career advancement opportunities. These two things are factored in when determining the amount of money that would be adequate as compensation. To press this claim, you will have to provide evidence that proves that your wages were affected.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering are the non-physical ways through which you can suffer after an auto accident. Sometimes, psychological counseling is needed to resolve the mental issues that arise due to such incidents. The mental issues can range from depression to fear of driving again. To determine the appropriate amount to be paid as compensation, the accident’s nature and the extent of pain and suffering will be taken into account.
Loss of Affection and Companionship
Unlike other damages, this one is claimed by the uninjured spouse or partner of the victim. Loss of affection and companionship, which is legally referred to as loss of consortium, occurs when the injury sustained prevents the victim from showing affection. Affection can be in the form of sexual activity or other such things. However, if the accident results in death, the surviving family members can pursue the claim of loss of society and companionship damages.
Endnote
An on-the-job auto accident can have devastating, long-lasting effects on your physical, emotional, and financial health. Thankfully, you don’t have to go through the difficult experience alone. If you have irrefutable proof that you sustained injuries from an on-the-job auto accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and recover rightful compensation for your injuries. Your attorney will educate you about your best options and help pursue claims or file an injury lawsuit, where applicable.
