Recently injured in an accident? You could be able to receive funds that you’ll need to pay for your medical costs and lost time at work, among other expenses. Trying to figure out what you’re eligible for, however, is a complicated issue and one that should be reviewed with the help of an attorney.

Personal injury cases are civil rather than criminal actions when it comes to personal injury compensation. The company or person liable for your injuries is not found guilty and then thrown in jail or facing any other criminal consequences for their negligence. Rather, the personal and financial losses suffered by an accident victim are known as compensatory damages and are further divided into general and special damages. The purpose of these awards for personal injury compensation is to help make the victim whole by returning him or her as close to the position they were in before the injury.

Some of the most common causes of accidents that can lead to compensatory damages are slip and falls and motor vehicle collisions. Special damages may include medical costs, lost income, out of pocket expenses and personal property damages. In an effort to prove these losses, you will often need to gather receipts, bills and other documentation to show the actual costs you incurred.

General damages, however, include emotional distress, loss of enjoyment, loss of consortium and pain and suffering. It can be much more difficult to illustrate these in court and that is why you need a San Diego personal injury lawyer who has assisted others with these claims. Given the far-reaching implications of any serious accident caused by another party’s negligence, you can’t afford to wait.

Each case is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach in San Diego when you’re involved in a personal injury accident. It’s up to you to schedule a consultation with a lawyer who can tell you more about your rights. Taking action quickly, regardless of the type of damage claim, is necessary so that you have legal standing to make a personal injury claim.