If you were injured in an accident in Georgia, you might already be dealing with pain, stress, and financial burdens. One of the most common issues people face after a personal injury is paying for things out of pocket. These “out-of-pocket expenses” can add up quickly, especially when you’re unable to work.
This article will explain what out-of-pocket expenses are, how they affect your personal injury claim, and why it’s important to track them carefully. If you or a loved one is dealing with the aftermath of an accident, knowing your rights can help you recover the amount you deserve.
What Are Out-of-Pocket Expenses?
Out-of-pocket expenses are costs you have to pay yourself because of your injury. These are not always covered by insurance. If covered, they are often not reimbursed immediately. Even though these expenses may seem small at first, they can become a big financial burden over time.
In Georgia, these expenses can be claimed as part of your damages in a personal injury case, but only if you properly document them and can show the costs are reasonable and related to your injury.
Out-of-pocket expenses are considered economic damages. Typical economic damages include things like medical bills or lost wages. However, out-of-pocket costs can include the everyday things you might not think of—like gas money to get to your doctor, or buying over-the-counter pain medicine.
Examples of Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Many people don’t realize how many types of expenses fall into this category.
The most common include:
- Transportation costs – This includes gas, public transportation, Uber rides, or even parking fees related to medical appointments or therapy.
- Medication and supplies – Over-the-counter pain medicine, bandages, braces, crutches, or other medical supplies you need at home.
- Childcare costs – If you can’t take care of your kids because of your injury, or need to hire someone to watch them while you’re getting medical care.
- Home care or assistance – If you hire help because your injury prevents you from doing things like cleaning, cooking, or yard work.
- Special equipment – Wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices you need temporarily or permanently.
- Modifications to your home or vehicle – For serious injuries, you may need to install ramps, grab bars, or specialized driving equipment.
Each person’s situation is different, so it’s important to think about how your life has changed since your injury. Any expense that comes directly from your injury may count as an out-of-pocket cost.
How Do I Prove My Out-of-Pocket Expenses?
In order to be reimbursed, you typically have to prove that the expense was necessary and directly related to your injury. Keeping good records is the cornerstone of a successful claim for these damages.
Here’s how to make sure you are keeping good records:
- Save all receipts from purchases related to your injury.
- Keep a journal or notes about when and why you had to spend money.
- Hold onto any invoices or bills for services you paid for.
- Take photos of medical equipment, modifications, or supplies if needed.
- Make a list of dates and times of trips to the doctor, therapy, or pharmacy.
If you’re not sure whether something counts as an out-of-pocket expense, write it down anyway. Your Georgia personal injury attorney can help you figure out what is eligible when it’s time to file your claim. The more detailed your records, the better.
Can I Be Reimbursed for Future Out-of-Pocket Costs?
In many cases, yes. If your doctors believe you will need future care, medication, or help around the home because of your injury, your attorney could include an estimate of these future costs in your demand.
For example, a spinal cord injury might require ongoing physical therapy, prescription medications, and adaptive equipment. Your lawyer can work with medical experts to project those future costs and factor them into your claim as long-term financial needs.
In Georgia, the law allows injured victims to recover future expenses if they are consequential and reasonably certain. This means the evidence must support the likelihood of future medical treatment, not just a possibility. The more concrete the evidence—detailed medical records, expert testimony, and a clear prognosis—the stronger the argument for reimbursement becomes.
It’s important to speak with a personal injury lawyer in Georgia who understands how to show future damages correctly. Without legal help, you might not receive enough to cover your ongoing needs.
Contact Starks Byron, P.C., Today for a Free Consultation With Our Georgia Personal Injury Attorneys
Recovering from an injury is hard enough without having to worry about extra costs. At Starks Byron, P.C., we work hard to make sure every client gets fully compensated for all damages—including the out-of-pocket expenses that often get overlooked.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence in Georgia, don’t wait to reach out. Let us help you recover every dollar you deserve. Call us today at (404) 795 5115 to schedule a free consultation with our Georgia personal injury lawyers. We’re here to guide you through the process, one step at a time.
