If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in New York, you’re probably wondering, What am I actually entitled to recover? Personal injury compensation—also known as “damages”—is meant to make you financially whole again after an accident. That includes more than just covering your medical bills.
Let’s break down the different types of compensation you may be eligible to recover.
- Medical Expenses
This is typically the most immediate and substantial part of a personal injury claim. You can seek compensation for:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries and follow-up treatments
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Future or ongoing medical care
Even if your health insurance covers part of your treatment, you can still be compensated for out-of-pocket costs and deductibles.
- Lost Wages
If your injuries forced you to take time off work, you can claim the income you lost during your recovery. You may also be entitled to:
- Sick days or PTO used
- Lost business income (for self-employed individuals)
- Bonuses or promotions missed
Documenting this with pay stubs, employer letters, or tax returns can help solidify your claim.
- Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries have long-term effects on your ability to work—or force you to take a lower-paying job—you may be entitled to compensation for future loss of income. This often involves expert testimony from economists or vocational specialists.
- Pain and Suffering
This category covers the non-economic impact of your injury, including:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life
These damages don’t come with receipts, but they’re very real—and compensable under New York law.
- Property Damage
If your personal property was damaged in the accident (e.g., your car in a collision), you can recover repair or replacement costs.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs
Additional costs that may seem small but add up:
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Home care or child care services
- Medical equipment (e.g., crutches, wheelchairs)
Keep a record of all these expenses—they may be recoverable.
- Punitive Damages (Rare, but Possible)
In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, New York courts may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct. These are not common, but they can significantly increase the total value of your case.
How Much Compensation Can I Expect?
Every case is different. Factors that affect your compensation include:
- Severity of your injuries
- Strength of the evidence
- Level of fault for each party
- Insurance policy limits
An experienced personal injury attorney can help assess the full scope of your damages and pursue the maximum compensation possible.
Know Your Worth—And Protect It
You deserve to be fully compensated for everything you’ve lost—physically, emotionally, and financially. Don’t let an insurance company decide what your suffering is worth.
Contact the Personal Injury Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates
Schedule a free consultation today!
Call 855-768-8845
Visit www.askthelawyer.us
