When your career as a public safety worker puts your life at risk each and every day that you work, it can come as a shock when you are harmed in an incident unrelated to your line of work. It is true, an accident could happen at any time to anyone, which is why it is always important to not only understand the cause of the accident but also what options you have to address the harm suffered in the incident.
Being involved in an accident is an overwhelming experience. It can feel like the world around you is suddenly going in slow motion but then suddenly picks up and is going double time. You may not recall everything that happened leading up to the automobile crash or what happened in the moments following it because all you can focus on is the pain you are experiencing.
Following an accident, it is important to understand what is considered an injury, as not all injuries present themselves immediately or are visible. Thus, an injury could be anything from a head injury, whiplash, broken bones, internal injuries, bruises and lacerations, mental issues and emotional problems that stem from the accident itself.
Seeking compensation for injuries suffered in an accident means proving cause and liability. This means that another party was negligent, caused the accident that resulted in the injuries suffered and you suffered harm as a result.
Once this is established, you can seek compensatory damages for the injuries. This essentially covers past, current and future medical bills as well as any rehabilitation, therapy and lost wages that resulted. Furthermore, the loss in the enjoyment of life could be included as well. Punitive damages may be available; however, they are used in matters where malice may have occurred and are used as a form of punishment for the liable party.
Although police officers, firefighters and other public safety workers are better prepared to deal with any injuries or harms suffered in the line of duty, this does not mean that they cannot apply any of that knowledge when a negligent party injures them in a motor vehicle accident. A personal injury action may feel like an overwhelming step to take, but it is important to understand how this could be a beneficial step to take. This is especially vital when it comes to addressing the losses and damages suffered.