Personal injuries can involve motor vehicle accidents, slips, trips, and falls, or getting struck by objects on another’s property. These types of injuries can end up costing you significant amounts of money while having major impacts on your general health and ability to enjoy life. When another person is to blame, you may be entitled to a settlement through an insurer. Before accepting an amount that is less than you deserve or need to recover, be aware of the types of compensation that are often available.
How Personal Injuries Happen
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), close to 40 million people seek treatment for personal injuries each. These typically occur as a result of another person’s reckless or negligent behavior. Examples include:
- Car, bike, or pedestrian accidents caused by speeding, drunk driving, or other dangerous behaviors;
- Slip and fall injuries due to wet floors or uneven walkways;
- Getting struck by objects due to a failure to secure fixtures or stock items properly;
- Dog bites due to animals allowed to run off leash;
- Sports or recreational injuries due to failure to take the proper precautions.
In these and other situations, an insurance policy may be available to help offset your expenses. However, people often fail to recognize insurers as a for profit business. It is not uncommon for them to deny claims or to downplay the amount you are entitled to.
Compensation Through a Personal Injury Claim
When another person’s negligence results in harm, they can be held liable through a personal injury claim. This often entitles you to additional amounts you would not be able to obtain through an insurance settlement. It is also an option when a claim is denied or a policy is not in place. Under the Oregon Tort Claims Act, you may be entitled to:
- Economic damages: These are objective losses you suffer. They represent medical expenses, such as doctor visits, diagnostic testing, medications, and physical rehabilitation. They also include lost wages while you recover from your injuries. According to Becker’s Hospital Review, a single day of inpatient treatment can cost close to $4,000 in Oregon. Combined with your lost income, these damages can add up to significant amounts of money. Economic damages also include any future costs and expenses you are likely to occur in the event your injuries result in ongoing disabilities.
- Non-economic damages: These are often referred to as ‘pain and suffering’. They are intangible costs associated with your injuries. A judge or jury will determine what is a reasonable amount depending on the severity of your accident, the extent of your injuries, and the impact they are likely to have on your ability to engage in and enjoy your previous activities and hobbies.
Let Us Help You Today
Before accepting a settlement or signing any documents in the aftermath of an accident, get legal guidance from the Johnston Law Firm first. To discuss the types of compensation you may be entitled to, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland personal injury attorneys online and request a consultation.