The consequences of an accident can be significant. Medical bills, lost income and long-term pain are some of the many impacts that can follow a significant accident.
A person who sustains injury because of the negligence or wrongdoing of another person or business may be entitled to recover three types of damages: economic damages, non-economic damages and punitive damages.
Economic damages
Economic damages refers to monetary losses resulting from your injuries. Medical bills and lost income are two common examples of economic damages. Economic damages can also include a reasonable estimate of future medical bills or lost income.
Non-economic damages
Non-economic damages refers to the diminished quality of life resulting from an injury.
Examples of non-economic damages include emotional anguish and pain and suffering. Additionally, a spouse or parent may seek damages for loss of consortium, which compensates for the loss of companionship or relationship with the injured person.
Non-economic damages do not have easily quantifiable monetary value, so a jury or judge will essentially evaluate the impact of an injury on a person’s life and assign a dollar figure for compensation.
Punitive damages
Under limited circumstances involving especially serious negligence, it is also possible to recover punitive damages, which are damages intended to punish a defendant for grossly negligent behavior.
Proving damages
To recover damages, an injured person must prove the extent of their damages. An experienced attorney can help present a compelling case showing the full nature of your injuries, which enhances the likelihood of recovering damages that fully compensate for your losses.