Motorcycle accidents in St. Charles can result in extensive financial and personal losses for riders. If you were injured in a motorcycle wreck caused by someone else’s negligence, a St. Charles motorcycle accident attorney can help you pursue compensation for the full scope of your losses under Illinois law.
Generally, you may be able to recover the following damages.
Economic Damages After a Motorcycle Crash
Economic damages are designed to compensate you for financial losses that can be documented with bills, receipts, and records. This category includes future losses that you are expected to incur.
An economic damages award may include money for:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Surgeries
- Physical therapy/rehabilitation
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages from missed work
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage, including repair or replacement of your motorcycle
- Out-of-pocket costs
In serious motorcycle crash cases, economic damages may extend for years or even a lifetime, particularly if the rider suffers catastrophic injuries.
Non-Economic Damages in a Motorcycle Accident
Not all losses can be measured with receipts. Non-economic damages compensate for the personal and emotional impact of a motorcycle accident.
These damages may include compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life and hobbies
- Disfigurement or scarring
- Loss of consortium or companionship
Unlike some states, Illinois does not impose statutory caps on non-economic damages in most personal injury cases. This means there is no fixed legal limit on what you may recover for pain and suffering or emotional harm. Incidentally, these damages can make up a huge portion of your compensation award.
Punitive Damages May Be Available in Rare Cases
Punitive damages are different from economic and non-economic damages. They are not meant to compensate the injured rider for losses. Rather, they punish a defendant for dangerous behavior and attempt to deter similar conduct in the future.
In Illinois, punitive damages may be available in motorcycle accident cases involving extreme misconduct, such as:
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Road rage or intentional acts
- Other outrageous behavior
Punitive damages are not awarded in every case and require a higher standard of proof than compensatory damages.
An Attorney Can Help You Track and Identify All Your Damages
Motorcycle accident claims are often undervalued. Insurance companies often rely on unfair stereotypes about riders or attempt to shift blame to limit their own liability. An experienced St. Charles motorcycle accident attorney can help ensure that you receive full compensation for your claim.
An attorney can help you:
- Collect medical records and other financial documentation
- Calculate future medical and financial losses
- Document your pain, suffering, and life changes
- Identify all liable parties and available insurance coverage
- Push back against low settlement offers or attempts to blame you for the crash
If you were injured in a St. Charles motorcycle wreck, you should speak with a knowledgeable Illinois motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you understand the true value of your claim and pursue the full compensation you deserve. Contact Feagans Law Group today to protect your rights and explore your legal options. Schedule your free consultation today.