How Can You Assess Non-Economic Damages?
Motorcycle accidents can cause damages that lack monetary value. For example, they can lead to physical disability that affects your quality of life. They may also cause pain and suffering, disfigurement, and mental health injuries.
Determining the compensation to claim for non-economic damages differs from evaluating other injuries. One method you may use to assess the settlement you need is gauging the severity. If you have anxiety, speak with your therapist to assess how the condition will affect your life. Then determine how much you need to treat the issue and its effects. You may use the estimated expense to claim reimbursement for mental health injuries.
Other factors you may use to assess non-economic damages include:
- Cost of the injury on your quality of life
- Number of impacts it will have
- Emotional anguish the injury causes
- Estimated income you will lose due to the damages
Can You Negotiate for a Better Settlement?
Once you file a claim for a motorcycle accident, the insurer may respond with a settlement offer. If the amount they provide is not enough to cover damages, negotiate for a better amount. At that point, request a negotiation with insurance adjusters. During this session, mention why the amount is insufficient and provide evidence to support your claim.
For example, present medical and repair cost receipts indicating you incurred a higher amount. The insurer may then offer a different value that you can accept or reject.
Another way to negotiate a better settlement is by making a counteroffer. Request the insurers to pay a given amount and offer not to file a lawsuit or drop an existing one in return. However, ensure your request sounds more like negotiation and not a threat.
Which Damages Can You Seek After a Motorcycle Accident?
You may seek a broad range of damages when pursuing reimbursement for motorcycle accident injuries. One aspect you can claim is pain and suffering, referring to the distress the incident caused in your life. This damage can consist of other injuries like:
- Loss of life enjoyment
- Grief for the wrongful death of a loved one
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Pain and discomfort caused by injuries or treatment methods
If your injuries caused you to stop working, seek reimbursement for the lost income. Further, include the cost of the career opportunities you may miss during recovery.
Other motorcycle accident damages you may seek are:
- Medical expenses
- The cost of renovating your home due to disability
- Consortium losses
- Property damages
