Sustaining an injury can be devastating. Whether it was due to someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions, being hurt can force you to face massive obstacles, often for a long period of time. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a personal injury, however, you may be able to recover compensation. With the help of an accident lawyer, you can file a civil lawsuit in order to receive the payment you deserve.
What Exactly is a Personal Injury in Gloucester City, NJ?
A personal injury occurs when one party is harmed by another’s negligence or reckless acts. An injury could result from a car accident around New Jersey, a slip and fall, or in a variety of other ways. Regardless of whether the injury was accidental or intentional, the victim can file a civil lawsuit for damages.
Damages in Personal Injury Cases in Gloucester City, NJ
Damages may be awarded if a victim has a valid case, and take the form of monetary compensation. There are many different types of damages that may be awarded depending on the specific circumstances. One type of damages are those awarded for pain and suffering. These type of damages are generally determined by the amount of suffering that a person endured as a result of the injury that was caused by the other party. Suffering includes more than just physical pain, but also includes emotional trauma that a person may have felt. In New Jersey, a person may be awarded punitive damages as well as general damages.
- General Damages: General damages cover the tangible costs incurred by the victim. This could include medical expenses, although it may even reach to damage to property, lost wages (both past and future), and any costs associated with a lasting disability that arose due to the initial injury.
- Punitive Damages: Punitive damages are meant to punish the liable party. These can only be awarded in special cases, where there has been a finding that the liable party’s actions were willful or with reckless disregard that serious harm would arise from the liability party’s conduct. Most states have statutes that limit the amount of punitive damages that may be awarded in a personal injury case. Under the New Jersey Code 2A: 15-5.14, the cap is at five times the amount of the general damages that were awarded or $350,000, whichever is greater.
How a Gloucester City Personal Injury Attorney Near You Can Help
Because the costs associated with a personal injury may be so high, it is imperative that you reach out to an attorney immediately. An attorney can gather evidence necessary to pursue a successful case, ensure you file all documents and claims within the proper timeframe, and help you understand your rights throughout the entire process.
Being involved in a personal injury case can be a very stressful and trying time for anyone. If you have been hurt, don’t face the legal arena alone. Contact The Pearce Law Firm today and let us review your situation to see if you have a valid case.