Taking a Look at Personal Injury Compensation in Alberta

If you or someone you love have recently been injured as the result of someone’s negligence or an accident/collision in Alberta, you may be wondering what kind of compensation you are entitled to. Knowing how to make sure you receive fair compensation following an accident is paramount to influencing your overall recovery. At James H. Brown and Associates, we know that facing the realities of medical and financial recovery following an accident can often feel daunting. Our team is proud to stand beside Albertans and help you fight for the settlement you deserve, without having to face the legal system alone.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the basics regarding legal compensation for personal injuries in Alberta. Read on to learn more.

What Constitutes Pain and Suffering?

While there are many different types of injuries that can arise from an accident, serious collision, or personal impact, Alberta law classifies two distinct kinds as eligible for compensation: general damages and specific damages. General damages involve any non-economic damages incurred from your incident, including physical and emotional harm.

General damages encompass an incredibly broad spectrum of ailments ranging from minor whiplash all the way to severe traumatic injuries like a spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic brain injury (TBI), loss of limbs and/or permanent disfigurement, or even wrongful death.

Special damages refer to economic losses suffered as the result of your accident including medical/specialist bills, lost wages or quality of life expenses, property damages and more.

In order for a claim to qualify for compensation, the injured party must be able to prove that their pain and suffering, as well as all related expenses, are directly tied to the actions and/or negligence of another. Car accidents, slips and falls, farm equipment-related incidences, and more can all lead to personal injuries that are eligible for financial support with proper evidence and the assistance of a skilled lawyer fighting in your corner.

How is Compensation Calculated in Alberta?

When pursuing a fair settlement for your injuries, it is important to be aware of how your overall compensation allotment is determined by the courts. In the most simplistic of terms, the ultimate determining factor of your total compensation is the severity and longevity of your injuries. There are multiple details and parameters that are used to come to a conclusion, including the duration and nature of the injury, the degree of the pain, how the injury affects the victim’s lifestyle and career, current and projected medical expenses, and more.

How to Pursue a Claim

Pursuing fair compensation following an accident can be a daunting process for Albertans due to the many steps and components involved in building and defending your case. Your first steps after being injured should be to seek medical attention immediately to receive a thorough evaluation and initial/progressive diagnosis over time as needed. Taking care of your health first not only helps to identify any issues as quickly as possible but also gives you the strongest chance for a smooth recovery. Clearly document any and all appointments, discussions with medical professionals, prescriptions, diagnoses, follow-up appointments and recommendations, incurred expenses (both direct and indirect), and stay on top of any changes that may occur as time passes.

After you’ve seen a doctor and been evaluated, your next step should be to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Injury lawyers like the team at James H. Brown and Associates offer valuable expertise that empowers you to make informed decisions to protect yourself during recovery and fight for the compensation you need to heal with peace of mind.

From handling insurers to protecting you during litigation, James H. Brown and Associates has you covered when facing personal injury lawsuits and offers full-scale legal services including accident reconstruction, access to local support programs and more. Our team of experts will investigate all the circumstances of your accident, carefully study the police report and witness statements and advocate for you to receive fair compensation for your injuries!

Here to Help

James H. Brown and Associates believes that Albertans should never have to face personal injury legal matters alone. With over 30 years of award-winning practice, you can count on us to help your voice be heard when it matters most.

Contact our team of personal injury lawyers today to learn more!