Car accidents are unpredictable and scary. Each state sets several laws and regulations regarding car accidents. If you have been involved in a car accident, it is essential to understand how these laws affect your case and compensation. However, they can be challenging to navigate without the proper knowledge.
Although the accident victims are allowed to seek compensation for all their damages, your case becomes more complex if you also played a part in causing the accident. A Glenwood Springs auto accident lawyer enables you to know the state laws pertaining to your case and what compensation you can recover for the damages you suffered.
What is comparative negligence?
While seeking compensation for car accident damages, it is essential to establish fault and determine the liable party. Drivers owe a duty of care that is breached when they act irresponsibly and cause harm to other drivers. It is possible that you were also reckless while driving and contributed to the accident’s occurrence. If you are as negligent as the other driver, you can not seek compensation. The proportion of your negligent conduct that led to the accident is reduced from the overall value of your compensation.
How can you prove that the other party was more negligent?
In most cases, insurance firms of the other party are determined to diminish or refuse the claim. They might blame you for the accident equally, even if their client was primarily at fault. A lawyer prevents such accusations from making you lose your compensation entirely. They help gather evidence such as pictures of the crime scene, security camera footage, witness testimonies, and your damages to prove the other driver’s negligence.
How is your claim value determined?
Depending on your damages, a fair compensation value is evaluated. The claim includes damages such as,
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Medical injuries: Car accidents cause severe injuries, leading to several healthcare expenses for the victim’s recovery. These include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and whiplash.
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Property damage: The victim’s car and valuables inside it can be destroyed because of the accident. Repair, restoration, and replacement can be costly.
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Lost income: The victim cannot work until they recover from their injuries and may temporarily lose their income. Intense injuries can also affect their ability to earn in the future.
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Pain and suffering: Accidents are also emotionally distressing. The severe psychological trauma degrades the person’s standard of living, and they suffer significant losses.
After evaluating the fair value of the compensation claim, the amount is reduced in proportion to your negligence that caused the accident. For example, if you were 15% responsible for the accident, your claim would be reduced by 15%. Your Glenwood Springs lawyer can help you estimate your compensation accurately and dedicatedly works towards helping you attain the maximum claim for your losses.