What are costs already incurred and how can they be reimbursed?

There are different types of damages incurred in a personal injury claim, some are already incurred and some can be future predicted damages. The following is a break down of the different types of general damages.

• Compensatory Damages: these include costs already incurred. This means any medical bills, lost wages, out of pocket costs such as replacement services for housework or other chores you are unable to do, mileage to the doctor's office or transportation, costs of nurses or aids to help with daily activities, etc. These are reimbursed depending on the actual bills and receipts that are presented during a claim or trial. They are actual costs that have already been incurred and are not negotiable unless certain medical treatment is questionable or denied.
• Punitive Damages or General Damages: these are costs that are predicted, such as future medical expenses, future lost wages, future replacement services, transportation, pain and suffering, mental anguish (including anxiety and depression), loss of consortium (effects on a relationship), disfigurement, dismemberment, permanency of an injury, etc. These are predicted according to the costs already incurred and the severity of the injury. The will be agreed upon by either you or your attorney and the insurance company or if the case goes to trial, the judge and jury. 

If you need assistance breaking down the different types of general damages contact a qualified personal injury attorney for assistance.