What are the Costs of a Car Accident in Tampa?
Car accidents are one of the leading causes of preventable death and disability throughout the United States, and statistics show that individuals in Tampa are at significant risk, as well. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there are nearly 395,000 auto accidents in the state annually. These result in approximately 253,000 injuries and 3,400 fatalities.
After an accident, you may understand the immediate impact of your physical injuries. However, there are other losses that are not as apparent right away, but that will still have financial costs associated with them. Below, our Tampa car accident attorney explains what these are.
What are the Costs Associated with a Car Accident?
Some of the losses you may incur as a result of the car crash, but that also may not be apparent right away, are as follows:
- Lost income: You may lose a substantial amount of income if you are not able to return to work right away to earn your wages or salary.
- Future earning capacity: When a car crash results in a permanent disability or other long-term consequences, you may not ever be able to return to the same line of work in the future. You may not be able to work at all, or you may have to accept a lower-paying job. This can greatly impact your longer-term financial security.
- Property damage: Like your physical injuries, you may understand the impact a car crash has had on your vehicle. It may require extensive repairs, or you may have to replace it altogether. Other property can also become damaged during a crash including your clothing, electronics, jewelry, and other valuable items.
- Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional toll of a crash can result in a great deal of pain. Depending on the type of claim you file in Florida, this loss may or may not be covered by compensation.
- Mental distress: Car accidents are traumatic experiences, particularly when you have suffered a serious injury. You may experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder in the following weeks, months, and even years. These can require medication or therapy to treat.
How the Hidden Costs Will Impact Your Life
The hidden costs of an auto accident will have a clear financial impact on your life. Your injuries may keep you from enjoying the things you once did, and this can cause issues with your family members and other loved ones. The wages you lose and any reduced earning potential can also cause long-term financial stress, while physical pain and emotional distress can reduce your quality of life. It is critical to speak to an attorney who can advise on the full costs of a crash and help you obtain the full amount of compensation you need.
Our Car Accident Attorney in Tampa Can Help You Claim Full Damages
If you have been hurt in a crash, our Tampa car accident attorney at Moore Law is here to help. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and to learn more about the compensation you deserve and how we can help you obtain it.
Sources:
law.cornell.edu/wex/negligence
flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports/crash-dashboard/
