What Kinds of Damages Can You Include in a Bicycle Accident Claim in Florida?

If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, you may be wondering what types of damages you can seek from the at-fault parties. Knowing which losses can be included in a claim will make it easier to decide whether filing one has the potential to be worth it.

Fortunately, Florida tort law recognizes a wide range of damages. Read on to learn about some of the most common losses that bicycle accident victims are able to recover:

1. Medical Expenses

Essentially all the expenses associated with treating the injuries you sustained in the accident are recoverable. These include the cost of any ambulance rides, the fees that hospital stays carry, the copays for doctor’s visits, and the cost of prescription medications.

Just make sure to preserve all the documentation that corresponds to such expenses over the course of your treatment. You’re going to have to prove that you actually incurred them to account for them in your claim.

2. Lost Wages

If you have been unable to work since the accident because of your injuries, you may be able to recover lost wages. This refers to the paychecks you would have earned if you had not been injured.

To seek compensation for this loss, you should be prepared to provide documentation from your employer, such as a letter stating how much you were earning and how many days you were unable to work.

3. Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering is a type of non-monetary loss that is designed to compensate victims for the pain they have suffered as a result of their injuries. This can include things like the pain you felt at the time of the accident, the pain you are still feeling, and the pain you will likely continue to feel in the future.

Pain and suffering can also include the emotional distress you have suffered, such as anxiety, depression, and fear.

4. Property Repairs

If your bicycle was damaged in the accident, you may be able to secure funds for the cost of repairs or replacement. Be sure to keep all the receipts for any associated expenses.

5. Loss of Enjoyment in Life

This is another non-monetary loss that tort law recognizes. If your injuries are seriously hurting your quality of life, you deserve to be compensated.

To demonstrate the extent of this non-economic damage, widely accepted pieces of proof include personal journal entries, psychological evaluations, and statements from friends, loved ones, and colleagues who knew you prior to the accident and have witnessed a change in you since.

Call 772-266-5555 to Discuss Your Case with a Stuart Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options. Turn to Donaldson & Weston, where a compassionate professional can help you file a claim against the at-fault party. Call 772-266-5555 or submit our Contact Form to schedule a free initial consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer in Stuart.