When you’re injured in an accident, it can feel like your life is flipped upside down. Beyond the physical pain, there are financial and emotional hardships that come with the recovery process. That’s why it’s important to understand the two primary types of damages available in a personal injury claim: special damages and general damages.
What Are Special Damages?
Special damages are the tangible, financial losses you’ve experienced as a direct result of the accident. These damages are typically easier to prove because they come with a clear dollar value.
Examples of special damages include:
- Medical bills
- Prescription costs
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Lost wages or loss of earning capacity
These are typically calculated using receipts, medical records, and employment documents.
What Are General Damages?
General damages, on the other hand, are more subjective. These damages are meant to compensate you for the non-financial impact of the injury—particularly your pain and suffering.
Pain and suffering can include:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress (such as anxiety or depression)
- Loss of enjoyment in daily activities
- Sleep disturbances
- PTSD or mental anguish
Unlike special damages, general damages do not have a set dollar amount, which makes them more challenging to quantify.
How Is Pain And Suffering Calculated?
Pain and suffering is evaluated based on a number of factors, including:
- The severity of the injury
- Whether the physical or emotional damage is temporary or permanent
- The impact on your quality of life
- The duration of recovery
- The circumstances of the accident
For example, someone who suffers a broken leg may be awarded significantly more in pain and suffering than someone who sustained minor cuts or bruises.
Need Help Calculating Pain And Suffering?
If you’re dealing with a personal injury in Georgia and aren’t sure how to determine what your claim is truly worth—especially when it comes to pain and suffering—our Atlanta, GA personal injury lawyer is here to help.
At Council & Associates, LLC, we’re dedicated to guiding you through the legal process and ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve, whether at trial or through settlement.
Contact Us Today
I’m Lashonda Council Rogers, and at The Council Firm, our firm cares. For a free, confidential consultation or case review, contact us today. We’ll help you understand your rights and options every step of the way.
