If you’re involved in a car accident in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to understand how damages are calculated so you can get the compensation you deserve. While the process may seem complex, knowing which factors impact your claim can help. Pennsylvania considers various losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering, when calculating damages.
Economic damages
Economic damages cover the financial losses you face after the accident. This includes medical bills for treatments, therapies, and future medical needs related to your injuries. If you miss work due to the accident, you can claim the wages you lost. Additionally, any expenses for repairing or replacing your vehicle fall under economic damages.
Non-economic damages
Non-economic damages cover the more intangible impacts of the accident, such as physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental suffering. Unlike economic damages, these are harder to calculate, as they depend on the severity of your injuries and how they affect your daily life.
Comparative fault in Pennsylvania car accidents
Pennsylvania follows a “comparative negligence” rule. This means if you share some fault for the accident, your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages.
Knowing how damages are calculated after a car accident helps you prepare for the claims process. Whether you face financial losses or emotional distress, understanding the different types of damages and how your actions affect the outcome will guide you through the process.