Personal InjuryA Fountain Valley Car Accident Lawyer Explains Damage Awards
A skilled Fountain Valley car accident attorney knows that being compensated after you've suffered a car crash injury involves both economic and non-economic damages--with most of your award covering non-economic damages, known as pain and suffering. Before addressing this subject, an overview of car accidents in Fountain Valley, California may help.
Car Accidents in Fountain Valley Affect Drivers, Bikers and Walkers
In 2006, statistics compiled by the California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) showed that four people died and 476 people were injured in Fountain Valley car crashes. Pedestrian accidents injured 14. Bicycle and motorcycle accidents injured 28 and 34 people, respectively. DUI crashes caused 28 injuries. In 2007, four car accidents caused four fatalities. In 2008, three car crashes resulted in as many deaths.
The Largest Part of a Damage Award is Pain and Suffering
Experienced Fountain Valley car accident lawyers will tell you that "damages" are defined by California law as monies you can be awarded when a driver's wrongdoing or negligence causes you injury. "The pain and suffering you endured then, now and in the future, as the result of your accident can be difficult to define and quantify," says John Bisnar. "These damages comprise the mental anguish and/or physical pain, embarrassment and emotional stress caused by any disfigurement and other results of the car collision." Pain and suffering often makes up a major part of an injured party's overall claim to recovery.
Dollar Amounts of Pain and Suffering Items Are Decided by the Jury
California's tort liability system was set up to define how pain and suffering claims are litigated. Under this system, juries have the power to decide the monetary awards paid out to compensate a car accident victim. "A jury will evaluate your dollar request on a case by case basis for each item of harm," notes John Bisnar. "They will decide if the amount requested is fair and reasonable." Before deliberation on these amounts, the jury will be instructed by the court on how a state's laws impact their decisions.
Consult a Car Accident Lawyer for Answers to Your Questions
A trusted Fountain Valley car crash lawyer can explain many areas of personal injury law and provide answers to questions concerning car crash injury compensation. Some of the best lawyers offer no charge, no pressure consultations. They can ensure that you are fully aware of the laws regarding compensation for pain and suffering.
For more explanations, please read "The Seven Fatal Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Personal Injury Claim" by California personal injury attorney John Bisnar. The book is free to accident victims--just go to www.BestAttorneyBooks.com to get a copy sent to you, or you can buy one at www.Amazon.com. Please see other BISNAR | CHASE Orange County car accident lawyers.
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