Understanding How Economic And Non-Economic Damages Affect Your Accident Claim
After an auto accident, victims may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. These damages aim to compensate for the financial losses and intangible harm resulting from the accident. Here's a discussion of economic and non-economic accident damages.
Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of medical treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and any necessary assistive devices or ongoing care related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: If the victim is unable to work due to their injuries, they may be entitled to compensation for the income they have earned during the recovery period. This can include both past and future lost wages.
- Property Damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of damaged property, such as the victim's vehicle or personal belongings, is typically included as economic damages.
- Additional Expenses: Any other out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a direct result of the accident, such as transportation costs for medical appointments or home modifications, may also be included.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages often encompass physical pain, discomfort, and emotional suffering experienced because of the accident and subsequent injuries. This includes immediate pain from the impact, ongoing pain during the recovery process, and potential long-term effects.
- Emotional Distress: Compensation may be provided for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, or other emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the accident and injuries have significantly impacted the victim's ability to participate in activities they previously enjoyed, they may be entitled to compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life.
- Loss of Consortium: In some cases, a spouse or family members may be eligible for non-economic damages due to the loss of companionship, support, or the ability to maintain a normal relationship with the injured person.
- It's important to note that the calculation of non-economic damages is more subjective compared to economic damages, as there are no precise monetary values assigned to pain, suffering, or emotional harm.
To determine the appropriate compensation for economic and non-economic damages, factors such as the severity of injuries, impact on daily life, duration of recovery, medical evidence, and expert opinions may be considered. Consulting with a personal injury attorney is advisable to understand the specific laws in your jurisdiction and to ensure that all relevant damages are properly evaluated and pursued. Jurisdictions may have specific guidelines or limitations on the amount of non-economic damages that can be awarded.
For more information, contact an auto accident lawyer near you.