The cost of medical bills, lost income, and vehicle repairs can add up quickly after a serious car accident. If your crash was caused by another driver’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to cover these expenses out of your own pocket. Unfortunately, it is common for personal injury claimants to accept low settlements because they simply do not know the types of damages to which they are entitled or how to calculate them. This is where a Missouri car accident lawyer can help.

The personal injury attorneys at Gump & Faiella have the knowledge, resources, and courtroom experience to help you pursue the compensation you need to move on with life. We have recovered more than $250 million for our clients in successful verdicts and settlements. Call us today at 800-264-3455 for a free initial consultation.

What Damages Are Recoverable After a Car Accident in Missouri?

There are two categories of damages recoverable in Missouri car accident cases: compensatory and exemplary. Compensatory damages are intended to compensate the claimant for economic and non-economic losses. Exemplary damages, also called “punitive damages,” are intended to punish the defendant for egregious behavior.

Economic and Non-Economic Damages

Economic damages are objectively verifiable losses. They include medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repairs, loss of future earning capacity, and a rental vehicle. In wrongful death cases , economic damages may also include funeral and burial expenses.

Non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and pain and suffering, are more subjective in nature. In wrongful death cases, non-economic damages may also include loss of companionship, support, comfort, consortium, instruction, counsel, training, and guidance.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are not recoverable unless there is clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with conscious disregard or complete indifference for the wellbeing and safety of others. Juries can only consider awarding punitive damages if the judge decides to allow them to do so. If punitive damages are awarded, 50% of the award will go to the state of Missouri. When calculating punitive damages, juries in Missouri are allowed to consider the defendant’s net worth.

Why Hire an Injury Attorney to Calculate Your Damages?

It’s no secret that insurance companies have financial incentive to minimize the amount of compensation they pay out to claimants. They may offer a low settlement early, but if you accept a payout before you know the full extent of your injuries, it might not be enough to cover your future medical bills and lost income.

The Missouri personal injury lawyers at Gump & Faiella can help you avoid costly mistakes such as accepting a low settlement, accepting a settlement too early, or making a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster. We can also evaluate your case to determine if you may be entitled to non-economic or punitive damages.

Call a Missouri Injury Attorney Today to Discuss Your Case!

If you were seriously injured or lost a loved one in a car accident, contact Gump & Faiella to discuss your case in a free consultation. Attorney Christian Faiella has earned an AV Preeminent rating from the Martindale-Hubbell rating service—the highest rating given. Call 800-264-3455 or contact us to schedule a free case evaluation.

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