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How do I get compensation for missed work time as a result of my injuries after a serious auto accident?
I have been recently injured in an auto accident. My injuries are rather severe and my doctor informs me that I may be out of work for the next two to three years. Upon filing a lawsuit, how will compensation be determined? Will I be compensated for the years I am estimated to be out of work? How does all this work?

Answers (1)
If you were recently injured in an auto accident, it might be wise to seek counsel from a Auto Accident attorney, which work for a contingency fee to protect you or assist you in filing a car accident injury lawsuit. The amount they get paid is based on how much they get for you. If your case involves significant injuries, it’s prudent to hire an attorney.
Damages can best be defined as the amount of money that can compensate for the injuries that were caused by the negligent conduct. There are two types of damages. Special damages are also called economic damages. These are things that can be proven with bills, invoices, and receipts (for example; medical bills, or the costs of prescription medication). General damages are less exact and more “touchy feely.” They can include pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. Compensation is based on what damages a jury might find if they heard the case, which is highly subjective and can vary widely between each jury. All damages require evidence. Injuries are documented through medical records that a treatment provider creates.
If an Auto Accident Injury case cannot be settled through negotiation, a lawsuit needs to be started. The first step is to file a summons and complaint with the court and then have the defendant(s) served with the documents. The insurance company will assign a defense attorney to represent the person who it insures. If you decide to hire an attorney, he or she will be responsible for meeting the technical requirements to properly begin the lawsuit in the right place at the right time.
The parties can enter into alternative dispute resolution to try to get the case settled. This can be in the form of mediation where the parties hire an experienced attorney to assist them in reaching a fair resolution. Arbitration can be another alternative because the rules of evidence are more relaxed and it is much less stressful on the plaintiff than a trial.
The final option for resolving a case is a trial in front of a judge and jury. If the parties agree, they can waive the right to a jury and elect to have the judge decide.
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Posted by Linda Adams on 29 Jan 2010
1 person found this useful
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