Every drunk driving accident injury case has its own unique facts. A crash victim’s ability to recover compensation, and the amount of compensation, can vary widely from one case to the next. In general, however, victims of Philadelphia drunk drivers can usually hope to recover compensation for:
Compensatory damages. Compensatory damages aim to make a drunk driving accident victim whole. They typically include compensation for:
- Medical Expenses and Bills, including current and future medical treatments, prescription drugs, and hospital stay.
- Property Damage, including the cost of replacement or repair to personal property and a motor vehicle.
- Cost of Living with a Disability, including physical therapy, medical devices such as a wheelchair, and other rehab services.
- Lost Wages, including the loss of current wages, as well as the loss of future income.
- Funeral and Burial Expenses;
- Pain and Suffering, such as physical discomfort, anxiety, insomnia, anger, or even depression.
- Loss of companionship/ consortium of a loved one.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive damages. Punitive damages aim to punish the at-fault party for wanton, malicious, or willful behavior that society as a whole wants to deter. Under Pennsylvania law, in certain drunk driving accidents, the victim can recover punitive damages against the drunk driver if the driver’s actions were so reckless and outrageous that the court decides they warrant extra financial sanctions.