Value. It might seem abstract, but it’s central to all we do. Your life, car, home — everything carries value. When someone damages your property and erodes its worth, you deserve redress.
However, securing compensation isn’t as direct as it might appear. You must convincingly demonstrate that the other party caused the damage to your property, and you must clearly outline the extent of that damage to obtain compensation.
This blog dives deep into property damage, exploring its facets, its assessment, and the pivotal role of a personal injury attorney when pursuing property damage compensation in personal injury cases.
Understanding Property Damage
Property damage in a personal injury lawsuit points to tangible loss. The nature of this damage differs based on the incident, be it a car, bicycle, or motorcycle accident. For instance, in car accidents, property damage could range from dents on panels, shattered windows, and broken bumpers to the car being declared a total loss.
But it doesn’t stop there. Property damage also covers any valuable item damaged in the incident, from mobile phones and laptops to personal belongings and real estate, if the accident happened on your property.
If the incident wasn’t your fault, you should be compensated for all property damage. However, securing that compensation isn’t straightforward. Given the intricate regulations in play, having a competent attorney by your side can be a game-changer.
Assessing Property Damage
The cornerstone of evaluating property damage is evidence. Solid evidence demonstrates the severity of damage to your assets. Here’s what you need:
- Documented Damage:Capture clear photos and videos of the damage, both close-ups and wide-angle views, to illustrate the damage’s scope.
- Repair Estimates and Bills:Seek expert opinions that delineate the damage and associated repair costs. Obtain invoices that detail repair expenses.
- Expense Records:Preserve all records of costs tied to the damage. For example, if a car accident left you without a vehicle, hold onto receipts for alternative transportation.
“Always remember, damages may have long-term implications. A car involved in an accident, for instance, may suffer a decline in value,” adds injury attorney Arthur Schechter of Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP.
Key Regulations Surrounding Property Damage
When lodging a property damage, be mindful of the following:
- Statute of Limitations:There is a legally defined window for filing property damage claims in each state.
- Comparative Negligence:This means even if you shared fault in the incident, you could recover damages. However, your compensation might be adjusted based on your share of the blame.
- Insurance Coverage:If you’re found responsible for another person’s property damage, this coverage compensates the aggrieved party.
Though the regulations outlined above seem straightforward, they merely scratch the surface. With myriad rules to adhere to, tons of paperwork, and strict legal timelines, it’s advisable to enlist the expertise of a personal injury attorney when seeking property damage compensation.
Your attorney will examine your case, gather requisite evidence, stay on top of deadlines, and handle the complex paperwork. More importantly, they’ll engage with insurance companies, ensuring you receive a just settlement.
