How does an accident victim in Yuma know how much compensation they can receive?
Yuma, AZ – The amount of compensation that an accident victim can receive will vary greatly based on a number of different factors. When another party is shown to be at fault, they can be forced to pay out various kinds of compensation, called damages. However, damages are limited to losses that the plaintiff can show were actually caused during the accident and injuries, and they cannot come up with unfounded figures and expect the defendant to have to pay this amount. The best way to get a specific estimate of the value of any lawsuit is for the victim to meet with a local licensed attorney who can review the specifics of their case.
Economic damages
The main type of compensation that is available to any accident victim is related to their specific losses that can be proven through evidence and documentation. Common forms of information about economic damages include medical and hospital bills, property repair estimates, statements to prove lost income and wages, and other documents that show specific financial amounts. Based on all of this information, the plaintiff’s attorney can summarize all of their present and future economic losses, and then list this amount in the complaint that begins the lawsuit.
Pain and suffering
Non-economic damages tend to be more difficult to estimate, as the victim’s attorney is given more room to argue about the victim’s physical pain and quality of life losses related to the collision. However, this amount will usually be tied to the proven injuries as well, due to the fact that disabilities or very serious health problems have a much greater impact on the victim’s life than minor or moderate injuries that will heal and allow the plaintiff to live a normal life.
Punitive damages in Arizona
Punitive damages are only awarded in cases where the defendant engages in extreme behaviors. Arizona courts have stated that punitive damages are only available when the plaintiff can show some kind of evil intent and acts. This essentially limits punitive damages to cases where there is malicious behavior that needs to be punished. The analysis used by courts tends to focus on the fact that the defendant knew that they were engaged in some kind of reckless behavior that caused harm, but did so anyway. In cases where they are available, punitive damages will be awarded at three to four times compensatory damages or less.
Assistance from an injury attorney in Yuma
Schneider and Onofry is an experienced firm that works with local clients in the Yuma area. They focus on cases in Arizona related to various kinds of accidents and other aspects of personal injury law.
Firm contact info:
207 W. 2nd St., Yuma AZ 85364
928-257-4887
soarizonalaw.com
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