If your child was injured in a car crash, slip and fall, or another type of accident through the fault of someone else, they could be entitled to compensation under California law. If they're under age 18, you'll need to pursue a claim on their behalf, so here's what you need to know about the types of damages awarded in child injury cases to receive sufficient financial recovery.
Your child can experience many types of injuries, such as:
- Burns
- Broken bones
- Congenital disabilities due to medical malpractice
- Severe skin lacerations and scarring from dog bites and other circumstances
- Organ damage
- Spinal injuries
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
They may need medical treatments throughout their life and have long-term developmental, cognitive, vision, and mobility impairments. If the injury was catastrophic, they may become permanently disabled and need help with their daily needs.
In California, children are entitled to compensation for their past and future losses. You need the assistance of an experienced child injury lawyer to accurately value your child’s claim.
Forms of Child Injury Compensation
Your legal counsel works with a team of experts to thoroughly investigate your claim, examine the evidence, and negotiate a settlement that provides rightful compensation. Here are some areas of financial recovery in child injury cases.
Medical Expenses
Injury settlements should cover all past, current, and future medical expenses related to the incident. These might include:
- Hospitalization
- Surgeries
- Doctor visits
- Medications
- Physical therapy and other types of therapy
- Assistive aids, like crutches or a wheelchair
- Home modifications
- Health care or personal aide
Lost Wages
If your child suffered a long-term injury that affects their ability to work, they may be able to recover future lost wages and lost earning capacity. You may need to retain an expert who can calculate how much they'll lose in wages and other employment benefits throughout their lifetime.
Pain and Suffering
Your child can experience emotional trauma and pain and suffering from the terror of the accident and the pain caused by the injuries. It can be even harder for children to cope with the devastating changes caused by their injuries than it is for adults, and they might suffer long-term psychological trauma. An attorney determines how much they should receive for their pain and suffering in their settlement.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are awarded when the negligent party’s actions involve malice, oppression, or fraud. The purpose of this type of damages is to punish the negligent party for particularly bad behavior. Depending on the facts surrounding your child’s accidents, they may be entitled to punitive damages.
We're Ready to Help
Was your child injured due to no fault of their own? I can fight with the insurance company for the compensation they deserve and obtain the necessary court approval of their settlement. Learn how I can help your family recover—call my San Diego office or start a live chat to schedule your free initial consultation today.
|
Related Links: |
