In a personal injury claim, victims may seek compensation for various types of damages they’ve suffered. These damages fall into two main categories: economic and non-economic. Understanding the distinctions between these types can help plaintiffs and their attorneys better prepare for a successful case.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are tangible, quantifiable losses that the plaintiff has incurred as a direct result of the car accident. These are often the easiest to calculate and prove because they involve clear financial losses. Key examples include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any future medical treatments that may be needed due to long-term injuries.
- Lost Wages: If the injury prevents the victim from working temporarily or permanently, they can claim compensation for lost wages, including future income if they’re unable to return to their previous employment.
- Property Damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing the plaintiff’s vehicle, as well as any other personal property that was damaged in the accident.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: These could include transportation costs to and from medical appointments or modifications to the victim’s home (e.g., wheelchair ramps) to accommodate injuries.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more subjective and harder to quantify because they deal with the emotional and psychological toll of the accident. These damages compensate for the impact the accident has had on the victim’s quality of life. Examples include:
- Pain and Suffering: This refers to the physical pain and emotional distress a person has endured because of the accident. It’s often calculated based on the severity of the injuries and how long the victim is expected to suffer.
- Emotional Distress: Accidents can lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health issues, which fall under this category.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the victim can no longer engage in activities they once enjoyed due to their injuries, they may be compensated for this loss.
- Loss of Consortium: In cases of severe injury or death, a spouse may claim compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, or support.
In car accident lawsuits, the total compensation is often determined by a combination of both economic and non-economic damages, with the goal of making the victim as whole as possible.
Contact Logan, Vance, Sullivan & Kores if you’ve been the victim of a car accident or other personal injury.