What Types of Damages Are Available for a Personal Injury?
If you are injured due to someone else's negligence, you can seek compensation from the at-fault party. In Georgia, personal injury claims allow for three primary types of damages: special, general, and punitive. Each serves a distinct purpose in helping victims recover from an accident's financial and emotional consequences.
Below, we expand on the types of damages:
- Special. Special damages compensate for tangible financial losses. These include immediate and ongoing medical expenses for surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation. Special damages also cover lost wages if the injury prevents the victim from working or reduces their earning capacity.
- General damages. General damages compensate for non-economic losses that are more difficult to quantify. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the diminished quality of life resulting from the injury.
- Punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded when the at-fault party’s actions were grossly negligent or intentional, such as in cases involving willful misconduct, fraud, or malice. These damages are not merely to compensate the victim but to punish the responsible party and discourage similar behavior.
At Van Sant Law, we take a meticulous approach to evaluating the full impact of your injury. We consider various factors to pursue damages reflecting the true extent of your losses. Our team will work closely with you to gather detailed information about your medical care, the time you have missed from work, and how the injury has affected your ability to return to your job or everyday activities. We also take into account the emotional toll the injury has had on your mental health and overall quality of life.
see how we've made a difference
If you are hesitating to call us for help, take a look at our recent case results.
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$100,000 $100k Policy Limit Settlement for Client Involved in Car Accident With Shoulder Injuries
Policy Limit Settlement for Client Involved in Car Accident With Shoulder Injuries
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$497,000 $497k Verdict at Trial for an Individual Who Was Struck by a Drunk Driver
Verdict at Trial for an Individual Who Was Struck by a Drunk Driver
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$122,500 $122k for Young Man Involved in a Head-on Collision
For Young Man Involved in a Head-on Collision
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$710,000 $710k Settlement for Claims Involving Injuries From Motorcycle Wreck
Settlement for Claims Involving Injuries From Motorcycle Wreck
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$450,000 $450k for a Family Who Suffered Serious Injuries in an Automobile Accident
For a Family Who Suffered Serious Injuries in an Automobile Accident
What Types of Cases Does Van Sant Law Represent?
We handle all types of personal injury cases, allowing us to provide legal guidance to clients facing various challenges.
Some of the types of claims we represent include the following:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Wrongful death
- Workers’ compensation
- Dog bites
- Food poisoning
- Medical malpractice
- Nursing home abuse
- Premises liability
- Defective products
- E-cig and vape pen explosions
- Diminution in value claims
- Department of Transportation claims
Our team provides dedicated representation for each personal injury case. With personalized strategies, a deep understanding of the law, and a focus on our clients’ well-being, we offer sound guidance at every stage.
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Proven Record of Results
Van Sant Law has recovered millions in compensation for our clients’ benefit.
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Years of Experience
Van Sant Law is committed to professional and experienced personal injury representation.
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Awards and Accolades
10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo™, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, National Trial Lawyers Association Top 40 Under 40
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Strategic and Aggressive
Our legal team includes former defense attorneys for large insurers who know how they settle injury claims.
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Personal and Compassionate
Our firm works hard to ensure that your needs are taken care of during your recovery time. We work for you so you can get your life back.
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No Fee Guarantee
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. Meaning there are no fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you!
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"David and his crew worked so hard to come to a great conclusion on my case."
I was in a car accident with a tractor trailer two years ago and David Van Sant came highly recommended for someone I could talk to about the situation. Best decision I've ever made! He fought for me in ways that was truly amazing. Thank you David, Michael and everyone in the office.
- Mary -
"Van Sant is the place to go."
R. Shannon Carpenter is the guy to call! Because of him I got a far larger compensation than I ever expect and the whole process was stress free for me!
- Chase V. -
"I highly recommend him as a personal injury attorney."
My attorney, David Van Sant and his law firm were outstanding in handling my personal injury case. I was out of work for a considerable amount of time due to an automobile accident and Mr. Van Sant and his entire team were always kind, professional, knowledgeable and especially available. This law firm did their absolute best to answer and return calls and at no time did I ever feel like just a number or stranger. My experience with Mr. Van Sant and his law firm (from beginning to end), were very positive as well as favorable.
- Lars S. -
"Van Sant Law was the right support to call after my car accident with my daughter."They were referred to me by a close friend of mine. Extremely professional, and asked the language I feel comfortable to discuss my case in. Alex Rusanov was my case manager and explained every aspect of my case during the process. I would highly recommend to use this law firm if you were injured in a car accident. Drive safe and stay alert!- Angela
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"David Van Sant has been by my side through it all."
I would like to thank everyone in Van Sant Law for answering any questions that I have in a timely manner. I can personally say, Everyone in deserves recognition for being honest, hard working, ethical, logical, dedicated people. The only reason I rated them 5 stars is because it would not let me go higher!
- Hilary -
"My results have been positive & I would highly recommend Van Sant Law to family & friends."
I had a head on collusion that left me with a totaled car & very bad injuries. From the first time I spoke to David Van Sant to the end I have been totally satisfied. I worked with Patricia she was very compassionate yet professional she was always ready to answer any concerns that I might have. I am grateful that my daughter found this law firm for me.
- Karen J. -
"We were thrilled with the support from Van Sant."
The team really helped us as we navigated the claims process after our oldest child had his car totaled by a drunk driver! They were incredibly professional and helped us through every step of the process! Would absolutely recommend their services! Thank you!
- Josiah B. -
"Let the Van Sant team handle your case! You're in good hands."
Attorney David M. Van Sant is one of the best injury trial attorneys here in the Atlanta area. They are precise and unique in their approach. When I had my car accident, my whole world was turned upside down, but with Attorney Van Sant and his team of professionals dedication and quality of service, my life is back on track.
- Crystal
Our firm is dedicated and committed to providing you with the best legal services possible, from your education on the issues to fighting for positive results for your case. Through a free, initial consultation, we will make sure you understand the best way to approach your case, and we’ll review any relevant documents that you provide us with to make sure we have a full, detailed picture of your situation.
Pursuing the Compensation You Deserve
Every case we handle is unique. That is why we develop personalized strategies tailored to our clients’ circumstances. An accident can cause significant disruptions, from physical injuries to financial instability. Our approach focuses on providing compassionate, individualized care to help you through this challenging time while concentrating on your long-term recovery.
We will take a comprehensive approach to building your case to pursue a just result. Our team conducts thorough investigations, gathering relevant evidence to paint a complete picture.
Our process includes reviewing the following:
- Medical records
- Accident reports
- Other relevant documentation
We also collaborate with experts and witnesses to consider every aspect of your case.
Our attorneys are experienced negotiators who know how to work with insurance companies. However, if negotiations do not result in an acceptable settlement, we can prepare to take your case to trial.
We have recovered millions of dollars for past clients, demonstrating our commitment to pursuing favorable outcomes. While past successes are not guarantees for future cases, we know what it takes to seek results.
Acting quickly to protect your rights is crucial if you’ve been injured in an accident. Contact us at (800) 234-9556. We serve the entire area, including Fulton County and nearby Big Creek, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, and more.
FAQ
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I Was in a Car Accident in Alpharetta. What Should I Do Now?
Immediately after a car accident, report it to the police, obtain a police report, and seek medical attention for your injuries. If you can document the accident scene through video footage or photos, this information may help pursue damages.
You may be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company, asking you to sign an agreement to accept a settlement payout. While you may be tempted to settle the claim right away so you can get on with your life, doing so could mean you are accepting far less than you deserve.
Contact an Alpharetta personal injury law firm to speak to a skilled attorney who can advise you and handle communications with the insurance company on your behalf.
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Do I Really Need a PIP Lawyer? Do I Even Have a Valid Claim?
Every accident is different. The only way to determine whether you have a valid compensation claim is by talking to an experienced PIP attorney who can evaluate the underlying facts and circumstances and help you understand your options. In some cases, where the damage was limited to your personal property and nobody was injured, you may not need a lawyer.
However, if you or someone else in your vehicle suffered injuries, an attorney may be able to help you seek more compensation than the other party’s insurer was willing to offer initially.
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What Is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?
The amount of compensation you can recover after a car accident or other type of personal injury depends on the circumstances and the type and extent of your injuries. Your attorney will consider all of the facts when evaluating what your case may be worth.
In Georgia, victims of personal injuries may be entitled to compensation for some or all of the following:
- Medical expenses, including the cost of initial treatments and ongoing/long-term care
- Personal property repair expenses, such as the cost of fixing a damaged vehicle
- Wages lost due to an inability to work after an injury or accident
- Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional
- Wrongful death
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How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help Me?
Whether consulting a car accident lawyer after a motor vehicle accident or meeting with an Alpharetta premises liability attorney because you were injured while visiting a private home or business, a personal injury lawyer can provide much-needed guidance and assistance during a stressful time.
Your lawyer will work to obtain evidence to support your claim and can be your fierce advocate, helping you seek the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will also handle the communications and negotiations with the other party and the related insurance company, removing much of the stress of protecting your rights after a personal injury.
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How Much Will It Cost Me to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
Personal injury accidents are stressful enough without worrying about having to come up with money to hire an attorney. You may not be asked to pay legal fees upfront when you need an Alpharetta slip-and-fall attorney or car accident lawyer to represent you.
At Van Sant Law, we do not charge for the initial consultation. What’s more, we handle personal injury matters on a contingency basis. We are only paid if we successfully obtain a settlement or otherwise win your case. If we don’t succeed, you won’t pay us anything.
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