Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Traffic crashes are one of the biggest causes of death and disability in the US, and statistics indicate that the problem hits close to home in Miami. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there are almost 395,000 vehicle collisions in the state every year. More than 3,400 people lose their lives, and around 253,000 victims suffer injuries in these accidents.
Car accidents in Miami often leave victims dealing with far more than just physical injuries. While medical bills can be substantial, many people fail to recognize the hidden costs that can add up over time. With help from a Miami car accident attorney, you can recover the full extent of your damages. An overview demonstrates that there are many losses you might not expect.
Hidden Costs of a Car Accident
Though the physical pain is certainly weighing on your mind, accident victims in Florida should also be aware of several hidden costs that can arise. These are consequences that affect various aspects of your life. Therefore, it’s essential to consider them when filing a claim or negotiating with insurance companies.
Here are some of the hidden costs you might encounter:
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you could lose a significant amount of income during recovery.
- Future earning potential: Serious injuries may hinder your ability to return to the same job or work in the same capacity, affecting your long-term financial stability.
- Property damage: Beyond vehicle repairs, you may need to replace personal property damaged in the accident, such as electronics, clothing, or other valuables.
- Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional toll of a car accident can lead to long-lasting pain, which may not be covered by traditional compensation.
- Emotional distress: Trauma from an accident can result in mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, which may require therapy or medication.
How These Costs Can Significantly Impact a Victim’s Life
The hidden expenses of a car accident have an obvious financial impact, but the incident can also drastically affect your emotional well-being. Your injuries prevent you from enjoying your favorite activities, potentially leading to issues with your family and personal relationships. Lost wages and reduced earning potential can create long-term financial strain, while emotional distress and pain can lower your quality of life.
In some cases, victims may require ongoing medical treatment or counseling, adding to the expenses. It’s essential to seek legal advice to ensure that you are fully compensated for these hidden costs. An attorney will aim to get fair compensation through settlement or litigation of your case in court.
Get Legal Help From a Miami Car Accident Lawyer
Our experienced personal injury attorneys at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, are dedicated to helping auto crash victims recover the compensation they deserve, including the hidden costs. We’re ready to provide personalized legal assistance to clients throughout South Florida, so please contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. You can reach our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL, by calling (305) 371-6000 or visiting us online.
