When dealing with personal injury cases, many people are often unaware that they can recover money for more than just medical expenses. In fact, there are three main types of damages for which one may be eligible. In this blog post, we'll explore these types of damages to give you a comprehensive understanding of your potential entitlements.
1. Economic Damages
Economic damages are straightforward costs associated with accidents. These damages are relatively easy for a jury to award because they come with a clear dollar figure, often linked to a bill. Claimable economic damages include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Rehabilitation therapy
- Property damage
- Lost earning capacity
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
Additionally, economic damages might cover future expenses such as ongoing medical treatment or future lost wages if the injury prevents you from continuing your work.
2. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages embody intangible costs related to an injury and its aftermath. Calculating these damages can be challenging, as they do not come with a receipt like a hospital bill. Instead, a jury must determine a fair amount. These damages may include:
- Pain and suffering from the accident, especially if the experience was traumatic
- Emotional anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life following an accident
- Loss of consortium, which refers to familial companionship and sexual relations
The purpose of awarding non-economic damages is to acknowledge that injuries impact more than just one's physical wellbeing. They can inflict emotional pain that disrupts one's entire life and even the lives of family members.
3. Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are imposed on defendants who have acted so egregiously that additional punishment is deemed necessary. While rare in personal injury cases, these damages are not unheard of. They are typically awarded in situations where the defendant is a significant business or corporation, and economic and non-economic damages alone aren't substantial enough to make an impact.
If any of these damages seem relevant to your personal injury situation, it is advisable to consult a legal professional. They can assist in determining whether you are entitled to recover money beyond medical expenses.