If someone causes you injury, you're entitled to compensation. But what exactly does this include? We've listed the main damage categories for you and explain what damages you can claim. What damages you can recover.

Medical costs: from emergency care to long-term care

Any medical expenses you incur as a result of the accident All medical costs you incur as a result of the accident are covered by compensation. This includes not only initial emergency care or hospitalization, but also physical therapy, psychological counseling, medications, and aids such as crutches, wheelchairs, or prosthetics.

Future care costs are also covered. Think of periodic check-ups, replacement of aids, or home modifications for permanent injury. Even costs that your health insurance (partially) covers, such as deductibles and co-payments, can often be claimed from the liable party. in many cases be claimed from the liable party.

Lost income: compensation for missed earnings

Can't you work temporarily or permanently (fully) because of your injury? Then you're entitled to compensation for the income you lose. This applies to both employees and self-employed individuals. For employees, salary, allowances, and missed pension contributions are considered. For business owners, annual figures and profit expectations are included.

Future lost income also counts, for example if you can't return to work or need to retrain. Our personal injury lawyers work with employment experts and actuaries to carefully substantiate this damage.

Pain and suffering compensation

Pain and suffering compensation is intended to compensate for the emotional and mental consequences of the injury: pain, sorrow, loss of enjoyment of life, or limitations in your daily activities. The amount of pain and suffering compensation depends on the severity of the injury, the duration of recovery, and any lasting limitations.

Factors such as disfiguring scars, loss of hobbies, or social isolation are also taken into account.

Household help and personal care

Can't you perform certain household tasks anymore, such as cleaning, cooking, or gardening? Then you can receive compensation for this. This also applies if your partner, family, or friends help you. A flat-rate amount is then compensated for the help provided, even if no payment is involved. flat amount reimbursed for the assistance provided, even if there is no payment in return.

In case of permanent injury, this compensation can be granted structurally, possibly with annual indexation. The scope of help can be determined based on reports from, for example, an occupational therapist. can be determined by reports from an occupational therapist, for example.

Travel costs: transportation to treatments and appointments

Injury often brings extra travel costs. Think of trips to the hospital, physiotherapist, your lawyer, or a medical expert. Parking costs, taxis, or adapted transportation can also be reimbursed. If you use your own car, mileage is claimed at a fixed rate.

Do you use public transportation or have someone else drive you? Even then, extra costs are often recoverable. A trip log with dates and destinations is important here.

Other damage categories: from home modifications to accommodation costs

Sometimes after an accident you have costs for adaptations to or around your home, such as a stairlifter or adapted bathroom. Costs for temporary stays in a rehabilitation center or additional expenses during hospitalization (such as TV, phone, or meals) also fall under compensation.

In addition, you may be entitled to compensation for informal care, delayed education, or loss of earning capacity – all depending on your personal situation.