When you’re involved in an accident, the financial toll—like medical bills and lost wages—is often the first thing people think about. However, personal injury law also allows you to seek compensation for non-economic damages, particularly pain and suffering. But what exactly does this term mean, and how is it calculated? Many accident victims don’t realize that pain and suffering can make up a significant portion of their settlement or judgment, depending on the nature of their injuries and the overall impact on their lives.
Pain and suffering encompass the physical pain, emotional distress, and overall reduction in your quality of life due to the accident. This can include everything from chronic physical discomfort to anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of activities you once loved. For example, if you were an active person before the accident and can no longer participate in hobbies or sports due to your injuries, this loss is factored into the pain and suffering calculation. While it may seem subjective, there are established methods that attorneys and courts use to estimate a fair value for these non-economic damages.
Insurance companies often attempt to downplay pain and suffering claims because they can significantly increase the payout. They might argue that you’re exaggerating your symptoms or that your emotional distress is unrelated to the accident. This is where having a skilled personal injury attorney is critical. The DiMaria Law Firm understands how to build a strong case for pain and suffering, gathering detailed evidence from medical professionals, therapists, and even your family and friends to demonstrate how the accident has negatively impacted your life.
The DiMaria Law Firm will fight to ensure you receive compensation for all the ways the accident has affected you—not just financially, but emotionally and physically as well. Don’t let insurance companies undervalue your claim. Contact The DiMaria Law Firm to learn how we can help you secure compensation that truly reflects the full extent of your suffering.