A serious car crash can have lasting repercussions on your relationships, career, and enjoyment in life. Although no amount of compensation can undo the hardship of living with debilitating injuries, you may be able to regain your financial footing by filing a personal injury claim.
If you were injured in a collision and you’re struggling to make ends meet, turn to the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. Mr. Fusner has been practicing law for more than four decades, and he has the knowledge and resources to help you fight for the maximum compensation. Call 615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free case evaluation with a car wreck attorney in Nashville.
What Kinds of Damages Might Be Recoverable Following a Collision?
In the State of Tennessee, wreck victims may be able to recover both compensatory and punitive damages in a personal injury claim. Compensatory damages are those that compensate the plaintiff for economic and non-economic damages incurred as a direct result of the collision. These might include:
- Ambulance fees;
- Medical bills;
- Rehabilitation costs;
- Lost income;
- Loss of earning capacity;
- Loss of consortium;
- Disfigurement;
- Loss of quality of life;
- Pain and suffering; and
- Emotional distress.
There is no cap on the amount of economic damages that a plaintiff can recover. As long as you have proof of the expense and it is legitimate, you can include it in your settlement calculations.
When it comes to non-economic damages, the State of Tennessee typically caps the total recoverable amount at $750,000; however, if the plaintiff sustained catastrophic injuries resulting in amputation, paraplegia, quadriplegia, substantial burns, or the wrongful death of a parent with minor children, the cap increases to $1 million pursuant to the Tennessee Civil Justice Act.
There are exceptions, though, and it may be possible to recover more than the established cap on non-economic damages in certain scenarios. For example, if the defendant intentionally inflicted serious physical injuries, your attorney may be able to help you secure more than $750,000 in non-economic damages.
You may also be able to override the cap if the defendant intentionally destroys, conceals, or falsifies evidence. Additionally, you can ignore the cap if the liable motorist faces a felony conviction because of the accident that caused the injuries.
The tort reform law places a cap on punitive damages in certain scenarios, as well. With a few exceptions, accident victims can only recover the greater of twice their compensatory damages or $500,000 in punitive damages. These damages only apply if the liable motorist was egregiously reckless, though, and as a result, most settlements do not include punitive damages.
If you were hurt in a collision in Tennessee, contact the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. A Nashville personal injury lawyer will evaluate your case, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help you fight for the maximum settlement possible.
Call 800-427-8960 or 615-251-0005 to schedule a free consultation. If you want to learn more about car accident claims in Tennessee, visit USAttorneys.com.
