The Different Kinds of Damages in Personal Injury Claims

images-1Personal injury cases are complex, and victims often suffer personal injuries and extensive property damage. Understanding the various kinds of damages that may be applicable to your case can help you seek financial compensation for your injuries. Damages are generally divided into economic damages and non-economic damages. 

A personal injury lawyer at Slappey & Sadd, LLC in Atlanta can help you determine what types of damages you may be able to claim in your case. Contact Slappey & Sadd, LLC today at 888-474-9616 to learn more about the different kinds of damages in personal injury claims. 

 

Economic Damages, Non-Economic Damages, and Punitive Damages 

Economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages are the three different types of damages in personal injury cases. Economic damages are also known as special damages. Non-economic damages are also known as general damages. 

Punitive damages are intended to punish a defendant and deter the defendant from committing the same conduct in the future. Often, punitive damages are awarded if the defendant is liable for committing harm that injures an entire community of individuals. 

Economic damages are typically associated with financial losses caused by an accident. The following are some of the most common types of economic damages: 

  • Personal care costs 
  • Funeral costs
  • Burial costs 
  • Medical costs 
  • Lost earnings 
  • Property damage 

Non-economic damages do not generally have a quantifiable value. Although non-economic damages are less tangible than economic damages, they can still be claimed in personal injury cases. The following are some of the most common types of non-economic damages: 

  • Loss of enjoyment of life 
  • Loss of reputation 
  • Loss of consortium 
  • Pain and suffering 
  • Mental distress 

 

It can be difficult to prove non-economic damages because they are subjective. However, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help individuals prove non-economic damages. 

Defendants must commit a reckless or malicious act to face punitive damages. For example, a chemical company may have to pay punitive damages for polluting a river or stream that is used by thousands of other residents. Punitive damages are awarded less often than economic damages and non-economic damages. 

These damages can be claimed in personal injury cases. Some of the most common types of personal injury cases include the following: 

  • Slip and fall accidents 
  • Medical malpractice 
  • Motorcycle accidents 
  • Automobile accidents 
  • Products liability 
  • Trucking accidents 
  • Pedestrian accidents 

 

Retaining a personal injury lawyer can help you understand the complexities and nuances involved in personal injury cases. By learning more about the types of damages you can claim, the more likely it is that you will make informed decisions about your legal rights. A skilled personal injury lawyer can zealously represent you and help you seek monetary compensation for your injuries. 

 

Call Us Today to Speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer in Atlanta

The personal injury lawyers at Slappey & Sadd, LLC have years of experience representing clients in personal injury cases. We understand how important it is for clients to understand how specific damages claims are related to their cases. Contact Slappey & Sadd, LLC today at 888-474-9616 to learn more about the legal services we offer. 

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