San Fernando Valley Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Your Guide to Justice
Pedestrian accidents in San Fernando Valley have become a significant concern, impacting not just the victims but the entire community. Streets bustling with activity and high traffic volumes contribute to an environment where pedestrian safety can often be compromised. According to recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, these accidents result in severe injuries and fatalities, bringing emotional and financial strain to affected families.
A recent Consumer Reports study also highlights that higher speed limits are leading to more deaths on American roadways, further exacerbating the issue.
Key Takeaway: Hiring a specialized San Fernando Valley pedestrian accident lawyer is crucial for navigating the complexities of personal injury claims related to these incidents. The expertise of such a lawyer can make a significant difference in securing fair compensation and ensuring justice is served.
In this guide, you will learn:
- The current trends and key statistics of pedestrian accidents in San Fernando Valley
- Common causes and contributing factors, including urban design and driver negligence
- The legal landscape for pedestrian accident claims in California
- How specialized lawyers tackle unique challenges to maximize client compensation
- Steps to take immediately after a pedestrian accident
- Insights on recovering damages and real-life examples of successful cases
By understanding these aspects, you’ll be better equipped to take action if you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident.
Pedestrian Accident Trends in San Fernando Valley: Key Statistics
Pedestrian accidents in the San Fernando Valley reveal concerning trends that demand our attention. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), in 2020, there were 1,027 reported pedestrian injuries and fatalities in Los Angeles County, with a significant percentage occurring within the San Fernando Valley.
Vulnerable Populations at Greater Risk
Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to pedestrian accidents:
- Children: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that children under 14 years old account for about 20% of all pedestrian fatalities nationwide.
- Elderly: Older adults aged 65 and above are also disproportionately affected, representing nearly 17% of all pedestrian deaths.
The data underscores the necessity for targeted awareness campaigns and enhanced safety measures tailored to these groups.
Factors Influencing Trends
Several factors contribute to these alarming statistics:
- High Traffic Volume: The dense traffic flow in urban areas like the San Fernando Valley increases the risk of pedestrian accidents.
- Driver Negligence: Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield to pedestrians are common causes.
- Urban Design: Limited crosswalk availability and poor road conditions can make walking perilous.
However, there is hope on the horizon with the advent of technology such as autonomous vehicles, which have the potential to significantly reduce pedestrian accidents by minimizing driver error. Addressing these issues through community efforts and strategic planning can also significantly reduce the number of pedestrian accidents and protect our most vulnerable populations.
Understanding Pedestrian Accidents in San Fernando Valley
Pedestrian safety is a critical concern in the San Fernando Valley, where high traffic volume and driver negligence contribute significantly to accident rates. By delving into statistics and examining common causes, we can better understand the need for increased awareness and safety measures.
Key Statistics on Pedestrian Accidents
In recent years, pedestrian accidents have been alarmingly frequent in the San Fernando Valley. According to data from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), there were over 500 pedestrian fatalities and injuries in Los Angeles County in 2021 alone. This highlights the urgent need for targeted safety campaigns and infrastructure improvements.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Several factors contribute to the high rate of pedestrian accidents:
- High Traffic Volume: The San Fernando Valley is known for its congested roads. With more vehicles on the road, the likelihood of pedestrian accidents increases.
- Driver Negligence: Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield are major contributors to pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are not paying attention pose a significant risk to those on foot.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents frequently occur during low-light conditions when pedestrians are less visible to drivers.
Specific Types of Pedestrian Accidents
One particularly concerning trend is the frequency of pedestrian accidents involving cars backing up. These incidents often occur due to driver negligence or lack of awareness, highlighting the need for better education and awareness around such scenarios.
Impact of Urban Design on Pedestrian Safety
Urban design plays a crucial role in ensuring pedestrian safety. Factors such as crosswalk availability and road conditions directly impact accident rates:
- Crosswalk Availability: Areas lacking designated crosswalks force pedestrians to cross streets unsafely, increasing their risk of being hit by a vehicle.
- Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads with potholes and uneven surfaces can cause both vehicles and pedestrians to be less predictable in their movements, leading to accidents.
- Traffic Signals: Inadequate or malfunctioning traffic signals can create confusion, putting pedestrians at risk.
By addressing these issues through strategic urban planning and improved driver education, we can make significant strides toward reducing pedestrian accidents in the San Fernando Valley.
The Legal Landscape for Pedestrian Accident Claims in California
Understanding the nuances of California personal injury law is essential when dealing with pedestrian accident claims. At the heart of these cases lies the concept of negligence. For a successful claim, it must be proven that the party at fault failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm.
Negligence in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Negligence involves four critical elements:
- Duty of Care: The defendant owed a duty to the plaintiff.
- Breach of Duty: The defendant breached this duty through action or inaction.
- Causation: This breach directly caused the accident and injuries.
- Damages: The plaintiff suffered actual damages due to the accident.
For instance, if a driver runs a red light and hits a pedestrian, they have breached their duty of care by not following traffic laws.
Shared Liability
Liability in pedestrian accidents can extend beyond just the driver. Multiple parties might share responsibility, including:
- Drivers: For reckless driving or failing to yield.
- Municipalities: If poor road conditions or inadequate crosswalks contributed to the accident.
- Pedestrians: If they were jaywalking or otherwise violating traffic rules.
California’s comparative negligence rule allows for shared liability, meaning each party involved shares the financial burden proportional to their degree of fault. For example, if a pedestrian is found 20% at fault for jaywalking and the driver 80% at fault, compensation would reflect these percentages.
Determining Fault
Insurance companies and courts assess fault through multiple lenses:
- Police Reports: Initial and crucial sources of information detailing the incident.
- Eyewitness Testimonies: Statements from people who saw the accident unfold.
- Surveillance Footage: Video evidence that can corroborate claims from either party.
Fault determination is meticulous since it directly impacts settlement amounts. Insurance adjusters may attempt to devalue claims by disputing facts or emphasizing shared liability.
Specific Scenarios
Certain situations can complicate pedestrian accident claims further. For instance, pedestrians hit by cars making left turns often face unique challenges due to the nature of these accidents. Such incidents are unfortunately common and can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Moreover, accidents involving rideshare services like Lyft also introduce additional liability issues that complicate settlements. It’s essential for victims in such scenarios to seek legal advice promptly.
Navigating this legal landscape requires expertise, making it vital to consult with a specialized attorney who understands these complexities. The right lawyer can ensure that all factors are meticulously examined and that clients receive fair compensation for their injuries. If you’re facing such challenges, consider reaching out to professionals like those at Sally Morin Law who cater to various personal injury cases including pedestrian accidents, ensuring clients focus on recovery while maximizing their settlements.
Why You Need a Specialized Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. These cases come with their own set of challenges that require the expertise of an Expert San Fernando Valley pedestrian accident lawyer. It’s important to understand the details involved in order to get the best compensation and achieve justice.
Unique Challenges in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Pedestrian accidents often involve:
- Severe Injuries: Pedestrians are highly vulnerable, leading to serious injuries like fractures, head trauma, and spinal damage.
- Complex Liability Issues: Determining fault can be challenging with multiple parties potentially responsible including drivers, municipalities, and even other pedestrians.
- High Stakes: Given the severity of injuries, the stakes in these cases are exceptionally high, both in terms of medical costs and long-term impact on quality of life.
Maximizing Compensation Through Expertise
A specialized lawyer employs thorough investigation strategies to build a strong case:
- Detailed Evidence Collection: From obtaining surveillance footage to gathering eyewitness testimonies, a comprehensive approach ensures no stone is left unturned.
- Accident Reconstruction: Utilizing experts to recreate the accident scene provides insightful perspectives that bolster the case.
- Medical Expertise Collaboration: Partnering with medical professionals to accurately document injuries and project future medical needs strengthens compensation claims.
Strong Legal Representation During Insurance Negotiations
Insurance companies often aim to undervalue claims. Strong legal representation is essential for effective negotiations:
“Insurance companies have teams of experts dedicated to minimizing payouts. Having an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer levels the playing field.”
Your lawyer will:
- Challenge Lowball Offers: By presenting compelling evidence and expert testimonies, they counteract undervaluation tactics.
- Negotiate Assertively: Leveraging their knowledge of personal injury law and past case successes to push for fair settlements.
- Prepare for Trial if Necessary: While most cases settle out of court, being ready for trial demonstrates a commitment to securing just compensation.
The importance of specialized legal representation cannot be overstated. A dedicated pedestrian accident lawyer not only understands the nuances of these cases but also possesses the skills required to navigate complex legal landscapes effectively.
Additional Considerations in Pedestrian Accidents Involving Rideshares
In today’s world, pedestrian accidents can also involve rideshare vehicles like Uber or Lyft. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s essential to know your rights and the steps you should take. For instance, what happens if your Lyft gets into an accident can greatly affect your compensation process.
The Role of Autonomous Vehicles in Pedestrian Safety
As technology advances, we’re seeing more self-driving cars on our roads. These vehicles are being programmed with sophisticated algorithms to navigate traffic. Interestingly, researchers are teaching robots how to grapple with unpredictable human behavior. This development could potentially reduce pedestrian accidents in the future.
What To Do If You’re Hit as a Pedestrian
If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident where someone hits you with their vehicle, it’s crucial to understand whether you should inform your insurance company about it. A common question that arises is as a pedestrian, do I tell my insurance if someone hits me.
Choosing the Right Lawyer for Your Case in San Fernando Valley
Expertise matters when selecting a lawyer. Beyond basic experience, consider factors like trial success rate. A lawyer who has successfully litigated numerous cases demonstrates a deep understanding of courtroom dynamics and a strong ability to advocate for their clients under pressure.
Client reviews play a crucial role. They offer valuable insights into an attorney’s communication style and dedication to their clients’ best interests. Reviews often highlight:
- Responsiveness: How quickly and thoroughly does the lawyer respond to client inquiries?
- Compassion: Does the attorney show genuine concern for the client’s well-being?
- Transparency: Are they clear and upfront about the legal process and potential outcomes?
Reading through client testimonials can reveal much about an attorney’s approach and effectiveness, making them an essential part of your decision-making process.
Taking Action After a Pedestrian Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide
When you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, knowing the immediate steps to follow after an accident occurs can be crucial for your safety and future legal claims. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this challenging time.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine or think your injuries are minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately but can have serious consequences if left untreated.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
Gathering evidence at the scene can significantly strengthen your case later on. Here’s how you can do it:
- Take Photos: Capture images of the accident scene from various angles. Include photos of any visible injuries, damaged property, and relevant road signs or traffic signals.
- Collect Witness Statements: If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and request a brief statement about what they saw. Witnesses can provide valuable third-party perspectives that support your claim.
- Write Down Details: Note down specifics such as the time and date of the accident, weather conditions, and any other details that might be relevant.
Contact Law Enforcement
Calling the police ensures that an official report is filed. This report can be pivotal when proving negligence or fault in your claim. Make sure to get a copy of this report for your records.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Informing your insurance company promptly is crucial for processing your claim efficiently. Provide them with all necessary details but avoid making definitive statements about fault until you have consulted with a specialized pedestrian accident lawyer.
Consider Legal Assistance for Wage Garnishment
In some cases, you might find yourself needing to file a wage garnishment claim due to medical bills or other expenses resulting from the accident. Following these steps not only helps in safeguarding your health but also lays a strong foundation for any legal proceedings that may follow. By acting quickly and responsibly, you enhance your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries and losses. For guidance through this process, consider reaching out to Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers, who can provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide for initiating a wage garnishment claim in San Francisco.
Recovering Damages After an Accident: What You Need to Know
A pedestrian accident can lead to significant financial burdens. Understanding the types of economic losses that can be claimed helps ensure you receive fair compensation. Working with an expert San Fernando Valley pedestrian accident lawyer can make a substantial difference in maximizing your claim.
Types of Economic Losses
When it comes to recovering damages, the following economic losses are generally considered:
Medical Expenses
- Immediate medical costs such as emergency room visits, surgeries, and hospital stays.
- Long-term medical care including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and future surgeries.
- Prescription medications and medical equipment like wheelchairs or crutches.
Property Damage
- Repair or replacement costs for personal belongings damaged in the accident (e.g., smartphones, clothing).
Lost Income
- Wages lost due to time off work for recovery.
- Loss of earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or career.
Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses
- Transportation costs for medical appointments.
- Costs for home modifications needed due to disability caused by the accident.
Real Case Examples from Sally Morin Law Firm
- $1.65M Settlement for a Car-Pedestrian Collision: One such case involved a pedestrian who suffered severe injuries after being struck by a car. The settlement covered extensive medical bills, long-term rehabilitation costs, and compensation for lost income during recovery.
- $841K Settlement for Rideshare Accident: In another instance, a pedestrian was hit by a rideshare vehicle. The comprehensive settlement accounted for immediate medical expenses, ongoing care needs, and property damage.
These examples highlight the importance of meticulous documentation and expert legal representation. A specialized lawyer not only ensures all potential damages are accounted for but also negotiates effectively with insurance companies to secure the highest possible compensation.
Understanding these financial damages available in pedestrian accident cases is crucial. Ensuring you cover all bases makes a significant difference in your recovery journey.
Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers: Your Trusted Advocates for Justice in San Fernando Valley
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. At such times, having dedicated legal advocates by your side can make all the difference. Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers have a proven track record of securing significant settlements for injured pedestrians, reflecting their commitment to helping victims seek fair compensation.
Notable Settlements
Here are some examples of how our pedestrian accident legal team at Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers’ has successfully settled some recent pedestrian accident cases for our California clients:
- Pedestrian Hit by Self-Driving Car – $1,650,000 Settlement
- Pedestrian Accident – Hit by Taxi – $937,500 Settlement
- Pedestrian Hit by Distracted Driver – $700,000 Settlement
- Pedestrian Hit by Car – $250,000 Settlement
- Runner hit by motorist – $100,000 Settlement
- Motorcycle hit by Uber – $225,000 Settlement
- Pedestrian Hit-and-Run – $135,000 Settlement
- Pedestrian Hit by Cyclist – $300,000 Settlement
- Pedestrian vs. Auto – Fractured Ankle – $215,000 Settlement
- Tourist Walking and Hit by Vehicle – $318,000 Settlement
- Pedestrian Hit in Crosswalk by Commercial Vehicle – $225,000 Settlement
See More Pedestrian Accident Case Results
Client Testimonials





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Amy R.Verified
I can't recommend Rebecca at Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers more highly. Rebecca is transparent, honest, and client-centered in a way that was completely different from the other firms I considered. Rebecca broke down what can feel like a very opaque process, and helped me understand my options in an approachable way. It was immediately clear that Rebecca's advice and guidance centered around my personal best interest, not what would make her firm the most money. Thanks Rebecca and team!Posted on Yelp![]()
Mike B.Verified
I unfortunately got injured in an auto accident and called a bunch of different attorneys with little to no help. I called Sally Morin Law and got help from Rebecca who was absolutely fantastic. She was there every step of the way to help and Isn't just trying to make a quick buck. She took her time with me and went out of her way to help out. Thanks for all the help Rebecca!!Posted on Yelp![]()
Shannon Y.Verified
Carmen and team at Sally Morin are the best. Having Carmen and her team for my personal injury case is one of the lucky thing for me in 2024 Carmen is a very capable law professional. she is expert in her domain, also she is very skillful in finding the key information. Carmen is also a compassionate and kind person, she listened and also put my interests in priority. At the same time she patiently explained to me the law information. Carmen is also very good with execution, the whole process she is proactively driving it towards the satisfactory result What more can you ask for a lawyer who is capable, professional, kind, effective and efficient.Posted on Yelp![]()
Dinora G.Verified
I was very fortunate, and by pure luck, I found Sally Morin's firm on YELP. The firm wasn't recommended to me by anyone, but I now want to recommend them to EVERYONE, especially my fantastic attorney, Annie Heller. Annie was compassionate, honest, attentive and very responsive to my calls and emails. Throughout the entire process of my claim, I felt completely supported and even after my case successfully settled, she followed up with me. Thank you Annie for your exceptional legal service.Posted on Yelp![]()
Phil M.Verified
Rebecca and the team at Sally Morin are awesome, plain and simple! Honestly, they were the only legal representation that didn't make me feel slimy after the first conversation. I was thrilled to work with them on my injury case after realizing it was more than I could handle dealing directly with the other party's insurance myself. They advocated for me and my family, going into incredible detail and crafting a great strategy for what to do next. The end result was a pleasant surprise, far exceeding my expectations. Rebecca and the team definitely earn their share by providing amazing value. They're also no-pressure, which was refreshing compared to other lawyers I contacted before choosing Sally Morin. Their priority was making sure I was always informed and knew exactly what was going on, every step of the way. If something happens again, Rebecca and Sally Morin will be my first call--and I'm sure there will be a multitude of emails to follow! :PPosted on Yelp![]()
Steve M.Verified
Attorneys Annie Levitt Heller and Carmen from Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers are the absolute best! They are dedicated, approachable and thorough in all their work. They provided the best possible outcome for my case (I was a pedestrian hit by a car in a crosswalk) and supportive every step of the way. I would absolutely recommend Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers to anyone Forever grateful to them!Posted on Yelp![]()
James Minh N.Verified
My sister got in a car accident, was hit badly by another driver, became unconscious, and was immediately taken to hospital emergency with an internal brain bleeding thus could not defend herself. As a result, the police report had false information from the other driver and concluded my sister at fault. While other legal firms purposed disappeared after seeing at the police report and other driver's cheap insurance policy (not easy win), Sally Morin team with great heart and "no win, no pay" written clause took on the case and successfully reversed both insurance + police reports and won the case. My family is grateful to find Sally Morin firm and great team with legal expertise, experience, and most important great heart. Thank you very much.Posted on Yelp![]()
Tim K.Verified
Unfortunately me and my mom were hit by another driver on the freeway. We ended up with hospital bills and a long road to recovery especially for my 85 yr old mother. This was such a tragedy and uncertain times for us not knowing where to turn and what to do about mounting bills while trying to get our lives in order. I contacted Sally and her wonderful team. Carmen one of her associates worked with me and my mom and handled everything. Carmen was awesome and such a caring lawyer as well. She keeps It real and we loved that about her. When you need a personal injury attorney that will work on handling your case in every aspect, insurance claims, potential health liens and negotiating on your behalf then Sally Morin Personal Injury law firm is the one to contact. You can count on them. Carmen explained everything so we knew what we were in for and was trustworthy and honest. There is no way to state how invaluable and priceless it is knowing the law firm you hired has your back and can be trusted. I hope no one ever needs a personal Injury attorney because being injured is one of the worst things that can happen to you; your life changes in an instant after a bad accident. But having a law firm like Sally Morin with lawyers like Carmen make that terrible experience much better knowing they are there to handle every aspect of your case and do it so well. Thanks Carmen and team. Much appreciated!Posted on Yelp![]()
Stephan B.Verified
I originally reached out to a different law firm to handle my personal injury case, but Sally Morin's team (Rebecca Taylor in particular) left such a good impression on me that I switched to them--and I'm glad I did! They were empathetic and professional, communicated early and often, and patiently walked me through every option. They did thorough research and handled so much on their end that I was able to focus on my recovery/work/life with minimal disruption. So I highly recommend this firm.Posted on Yelp![]()
Michele H.Verified
Word cannot express the honesty from Annie at Sally Morin law . She is honest kind and to the point . If you want to get ripped off by shady humans don't hire Annie . If you want honest kind and attentive go with Annie at Sally Morin law . You will feel good about your choice . She is a firm advocate with insurance and health care . Annie and her team will be available to explain things all the way through . Her integrity is not matched in this field . I would hire again and again Thanks Annie You made one of the most difficult times in my families life tolerable ! Your kindness and integrity are not matched in everyday life . Much less with personal injury lawyers thank you thank you Michele Hargrove
Commitment to Client Success
Our approach is comprehensive and client-focused:
- Thorough Investigations: We leave no stone unturned when it comes to gathering evidence, including detailed accident scene reconstructions and expert consultations.
- Expert Negotiation: Leveraging years of experience, we negotiate assertively with insurance companies to ensure our clients receive maximum compensation.
- Client-Centric Representation: From the initial consultation through the resolution of the case, we prioritize clear communication, transparency, and unwavering support.
Sally Morin Law Firm stands as a beacon of hope and justice for pedestrians in San Fernando Valley who have suffered due to another’s negligence.
However, not all pedestrian accidents occur in marked crosswalks. If you find yourself in such a situation, Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help you navigate your case successfully.
Additionally, if your pedestrian accident involves a semi-truck or you have questions about regulations that apply to interstate trucks, don’t hesitate to reach out.
In unfortunate circumstances where you suffer severe injuries such as internal bleeding from being hit by a car, our experienced team is ready to advocate on your behalf for full compensation.
Moreover, it’s important to stay informed about California’s surge in staged and fraudulent car accidents which could potentially affect your case. For more information on this topic, please refer to our article about California’s Surge in Staged and Fraudulent Car Accidents.
Get Expert Legal Help Today!
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, but hiring an expert San Fernando Valley pedestrian accident lawyer is essential for obtaining justice and fair compensation. The complexities of personal injury claims, from proving negligence to negotiating with insurance companies, require specialized legal expertise.
At Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers, we are committed to advocating for victims’ rights through legal representation. Our team understands the unique challenges faced by injured pedestrians and uses thorough investigation strategies to build strong cases. For instance, if you’ve suffered a pedestrian brain injury after being hit by a car, our expert lawyers can help you secure full compensation.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, don’t navigate this difficult journey alone. Contact Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers today for a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. We can assist with various aspects of your case, including understanding who’s liable in a California no-contact car accident or helping you prove loss of earnings if you’re self-employed.
Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve while minimizing your stress and costs. Reach out now and take the first step towards justice.
Need Help?  Call us now for a FREE, no-obligation case evaluation: 877-380-8852
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the common causes of pedestrian accidents in San Fernando Valley?
Several factors contribute to the high rate of pedestrian accidents, including distracted driving, speeding, poor urban design, and failure to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.
Why are children and the elderly considered vulnerable populations in pedestrian accidents?
Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to pedestrian accidents due to their limited mobility, slower reaction times, and often being less visible to drivers.
What should I do immediately after being hit as a pedestrian?
If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, seek medical attention immediately, document the scene thoroughly, contact law enforcement to file an official report, and notify your insurance company promptly.
How does urban design impact pedestrian safety?
Urban design plays a crucial role in ensuring pedestrian safety. Well-designed streets with adequate crosswalks, signage, and lighting can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
Why is it important to hire a specialized pedestrian accident lawyer?
Dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. A specialized lawyer can provide strong legal representation during insurance negotiations and help maximize compensation through thorough investigation strategies.
What types of economic losses can I recover after a pedestrian accident?
After a pedestrian accident, you may be able to recover various types of economic losses including medical expenses, lost wages due to inability to work, and costs related to rehabilitation or long-term care.






