Whether you or a loved one are dealing with the aftermath of a personal injury, it’ll help to know the potential damages you can win in a lawsuit. Knowing the types of compensation you may recover can help you make an informed decision about taking the other party to court. Use this guide as a valuable resource in your journey toward justice and restitution.
Compensatory Economic Damages
Damages designed to compensate the plaintiff aim to restore them to the position they were in before the injury occurred. They cover measurable financial losses that result from the injuries caused by the defendant’s negligence. This category includes:
- Medical expenses required to treat the injury
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Future earning potential lost as a result of the injury
Compensatory Non-Economic Damages
You can’t qualify non-economic damages as a dollar amount, but these damages still play an important role in your case by aiming to make you emotionally and psychologically whole. Intangible losses that don’t have a direct monetary value are “pain and suffering” damages, and they can include:
- Emotional distress when recalling the incident that caused the injury
- Diminished enjoyment of life
- Physical discomfort and mental suffering arising from the injury
Punitive Damages
In instances where the defendant’s actions were especially reckless or egregious, the court may opt to award punitive damages to the plaintiff. Punitive damages punish the person who harmed you and deter them from similar conduct in the future.
However, keep in mind that the court awards compensatory damages first, and not every case will qualify for punitive damages.
Understanding the potential damages you can win in a personal injury case is key to navigating the legal process and seeking fair compensation. As you begin the litigation process, remember that every personal injury case is unique, with its own set of circumstances and nuances. Enlist an attorney who specializes in personal injury to advocate for you, both inside the courtroom and in settlement negotiations.