When someone suffers an injury due to another party’s negligence, the financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming. Medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress often make recovery difficult. Fortunately, personal injury claims with a skilled injury lawyer allows victims to seek compensation for their losses. Understanding the different types of damages that can be pursued can help ensure a fair settlement or court award. Our friends at Presser Law, P.A. detail some of the different types of compensation, below.
Economic Damages: Covering Financial Losses
Economic damages, also known as special damages, compensate victims for tangible financial losses directly related to the injury. These damages are calculated based on actual expenses and lost income, making them easier to quantify.
Medical Expenses
Medical bills often make up the largest portion of a personal injury claim. Compensation can cover:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries and procedures
- Doctor appointments
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medical devices such as crutches or wheelchairs
For severe injuries that require long-term treatment, future medical costs can also be included in the claim.
Lost Wages And Loss Of Earning Capacity
Injuries may prevent victims from working temporarily or permanently. Compensation can include:
- Wages lost while recovering
- Missed bonuses or promotions
- Loss of future earning potential if the injury causes long-term disability
If an injury prevents a person from returning to their previous job, they may be entitled to compensation for job retraining or career adjustments.
Property Damage
If an accident results in damage to personal property, such as a vehicle in a car crash or a bicycle in a cycling accident, repair or replacement costs can be included in the claim.
Non-Economic Damages: Compensation For Pain And Suffering
Not all losses are financial. Non-economic damages, also known as general damages, compensate victims for the physical and emotional effects of an injury. These damages are more subjective and can vary based on the severity of the injury.
Pain And Suffering
Victims may be entitled to compensation for physical pain caused by the injury, as well as ongoing discomfort from surgeries, therapy, or chronic conditions.
Emotional Distress
Injuries often lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. Compensation may be awarded for the psychological impact of an accident, especially in cases involving traumatic events.
Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life
If an injury prevents someone from engaging in activities they once enjoyed, such as sports, hobbies, or spending time with family, they may receive compensation for diminished quality of life.
Loss Of Consortium
If an injury negatively affects a person’s relationship with their spouse or family, they may seek damages for loss of companionship, affection, or intimacy.
All of these issues are incredibly difficult to deal with, which is why contacting an injury attorney is crucial following an accident.
Punitive Damages: Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
In some cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future. These damages are not meant to compensate the victim directly but serve as a penalty for reckless or intentional misconduct. Punitive damages are often awarded in cases involving:
- Drunk or reckless driving accidents
- Severe medical malpractice
- Intentional harm or gross negligence
Maximizing Compensation With Legal Guidance
Determining the full value of a personal injury claim can be complex, especially when non-economic damages are involved. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, making it crucial to have legal representation that understands how to calculate and negotiate fair compensation.
Get The Compensation Needed For A Full Recovery
Our colleagues at Kellogg & Van Aken know that an injury can impact every part of a person’s life, from financial stability to emotional well-being. Seeking fair compensation ensures that victims have the resources needed to recover and move forward. Legal guidance can make all the difference in securing a settlement or court award that truly reflects the losses suffered.