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The INFLUENCES ON CAR ACCIDENT CLAIMS in Tampa and the surrounding areas vary and, unfortunately, hold very different weight depending upon who is looking at them… the insurance company or you (the victim).

The insurance companies typically look at the following:

• How the accident happened
• Whether you carry any comparative negligence
• What the defendant was doing leading to the accident

While important, the compensation you would receive if these were the only factors considered may fall short of the total amount of your damages.

When considering what you will need to keep moving forward, you should consider the following additional influences on car accident claims.

Economic Damages
These are the real fees that you have paid out of your pocket for during your recovery. You should have receipts for these damages.

• Repair invoices
• Medical bills
• Receipts for anything related to your car accident after the incident
• Medical treatment (hospital bills, ambulance fees, and all other expenses related to your medical care from the accident)
• Lost income
• Property damage (and vehicle repair or replacement costs)

Pain and Suffering
The court will also award pain and suffering compensation to a plaintiff who suffered physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish due to a defendant’s actions. This award will vary based on:

• The severity of the plaintiff’s injuries
• The manifestation of any permanent disability
• The plaintiff’s quality of life following his or her recovery
• Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are sometimes awarded, although rarely, only when a defendant’s behavior is found to be especially harmful. This includes performing criminal activities such as driving under the influence or fleeing from the police during the time of the accident.

Punitive damages exist to punish a defendant’s wrongdoing, and the amount awarded depends on the severity of the defendant’s behavior and his or her financial status.