What Expenses Can You Recover in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, filing a personal injury lawsuit can help you recover compensation to cover the financial losses caused by the accident. But what exactly can you claim?

Understanding the types of expenses you can recover is crucial for building a strong case and ensuring you’re fairly compensated.

1. Medical Expenses

Medical costs are usually the most obvious and significant part of a personal injury claim. This includes:

• Hospital bills

• Doctor visits

• Surgery costs

• Prescription medications

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation

• Medical equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, braces)

• Future medical expenses if ongoing treatment is necessary

Make sure to keep all receipts, invoices, and detailed medical records to support these claims.

2. Lost Wages

If your injury caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income, including:

• Salary or hourly wages lost during recovery

• Lost bonuses or commissions

• Reduced earning capacity if your injury affects your ability to work long-term

Your employer’s records and pay stubs will be important evidence here.

3. Property Damage

If the accident damaged your personal property—like your car, clothing, or personal belongings—you may recover repair or replacement costs as part of your claim.

4. Pain and Suffering

Beyond tangible expenses, you can claim compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. This is a more subjective element and often requires expert testimony or detailed documentation of how the injury impacted your quality of life.

5. Loss of Consortium

In some cases, spouses or close family members may claim damages for the loss of companionship, affection, or support due to the injury.

6. Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses

This can include:

• Transportation costs to medical appointments

• Costs of hiring help for household chores or child care

• Home modifications needed due to disability (e.g., wheelchair ramps)

7. Legal and Expert Fees

In some cases, your attorney’s fees and the costs for expert witnesses may be recoverable, especially if the case goes to trial.

Final Tips

• Document everything: Keep detailed records of all expenses and losses.

• Consult a personal injury lawyer: They can help you identify all potential recoverable expenses and build a comprehensive claim.

• Don’t accept the first offer: Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than you deserve.

Need Help Maximizing Your Compensation?

If you’ve been injured, an experienced personal injury lawyer london ontario can help you recover all the expenses you’re entitled to. Contact us for a free consultation and get the support you need to focus on healing.