The aftermath of a car accident can be a challenging time, filled with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you have been involved in a car accident in Alaska, you may be wondering what compensation you can obtain to help you recover. Alaska’s car accident compensation laws are designed to provide financial relief to victims who have been injured due to another driver’s negligence. These laws can be complex, so it is important to understand your rights and options before pursuing compensation.
Economic or compensatory damages are monetary losses that can be objectively verified and calculated. These damages aim to compensate the accident victim for the financial burden caused by the accident.
In Alaska, economic damages typically include:
The amount of economic damages you can recover will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. However, there are generally two methods used to calculate economic damages:
You will need the help of an Alaska car accident attorney to calculate the compensation you deserve.
Alaska follows the doctrine of pure comparative fault, which allows an injured party to recover damages even if they are partially at fault for the accident. This means that the plaintiff’s negligence does not bar them from receiving compensation, but rather, it reduces their damages award based on their percentage of fault.
The plaintiff’s damages are reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if the plaintiff is found to be 20% at fault, their damages would be reduced by 20%. Unlike contributory negligence, pure comparative fault does not completely bar a plaintiff’s recovery, even if they are found to be more than 50% at fault. Also, when multiple parties are found to be negligent, the plaintiff’s damages are apportioned among the defendants based on their respective percentages of fault.
Pure comparative fault has significantly impacted car accident cases in Alaska, allowing injured parties to seek compensation even if they share some responsibility for the accident. This approach ensures that plaintiffs are not unfairly deprived of compensation for their negligence while holding them accountable for their actions.
Navigating the complexities of Alaska’s car accident compensation laws can be challenging. It is highly advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case and determine the best course of action. An attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your legal rights.