People injured in accidents caused by others in Oklahoma have the right to seek compensation for their medical bills, lost earnings, and other financial losses. Additionally, accident victims may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering damages that are more difficult to quantify.
But what is the difference between pain and suffering? After an accident, we all experience pain and distress. However, in legal terms, damages for pain and suffering apply to non-economic losses. Continue reading to discover more from the personal injury attorneys at The Law Office of Dakota C. Low in Oklahoma City.
What Is the Difference Between Pain and Suffering Damages?
In most cases, pain and suffering compensation covers both the physical and emotional suffering a victim has had as a result of the injury.
Physical pain and suffering refers to the discomfort and pain you have experienced and will continue to experience as a result of your injuries and recovery (e.g., pain after surgery or during rehabilitation and therapy, etc.).
Accident-related emotional anguish, psychological trauma, lost enjoyment of life, shame, embarrassment, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression are all covered by emotional or mental pain and suffering damages.
In a Personal Injury Case, What Are Pain and Suffering Damages?
A personal injury claimant can seek compensation for the following types of pain and suffering damages:
- Physical injuries sustained as a result of the accident
- Psychiatric problems as a result of the injury
- Decreased quality of life if the injuries result in long-term disability
- Loss of pleasure in life
How Can I Prove My Pain & Suffering Damages?
Bills, invoices, receipts, and W-2s or income statements are used to compute compensation for medical expenses, missed wages, and earning ability. However, calculating pain and suffering necessitates a more subjective assessment.
Maintaining a “pain notebook” that documents your rehabilitation progress can aid your compensation claim. Keep track of how much physical pain you’re in during your recuperation, how your injuries affect your everyday life or ability to work, and how the injuries have affected your mental well-being. Don’t exaggerate or downplay the severity of your suffering damages. When someone is lying, the insurance company can tell.
You can aid document your pain and suffering damages by gathering testimonials from family, friends, and coworkers about how your injuries have affected your life, in addition to keeping a journal.
Contact an Oklahoma City Personal Injury Attorney Today
At The Law Office of Dakota C. Low, we recognize that accidents have far-reaching consequences. Allow us to assist you in obtaining maximum pain and suffering damages compensation. For a free consultation with an expert personal injury lawyer, contact Dakota Low today for a free case review and consultation at 405.601.8899 or use our contact form.
