In a civil lawsuit for personal injury, the victim is entitled to collect compensation from the at-fault party for their losses. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Katzman, Logan, Halper and Bennett, LPA, located in Cincinnati, OH, are prepared to help victims of accidents collect damages for wrongs done to them.

What Are Damages In A Personal Injury Case?

“Damages” refer to the compensation awarded in a personal injury claim. Damages are intended to make a victim whole again after an injury, or to allow the plaintiff to get into a position in which they would have been had not the injury occurred. In a personal injury case, damages usually refer to the following:

1. Pain & Suffering.

In some instances, a judge or jury may award the plaintiff compensation for their pain and suffering, especially if their injuries were significant enough to warrant a major lifestyle change. Because pain and suffering is difficult to calculate, many adjusters will opt to settle insurance claims that claim pain and suffering. 

2. Medical Expenses.

If the plaintiff accrues any medical bills as a result of their injury, the judge or jury may award damages for medical expenses. Medical procedures for which a victim can be compensated include any testing, treatment, medical care, therapy, or hospital stays that were a result of the injury.

3. Lost Wages.

Compensation for lost wages or lost income is a common damage awarded in a personal injury case. Lost wages can include payment for any work that the victim may have missed because of their injury, or because of treatment for the injury.

4. Emotional Distress.

While similar to pain and suffering, emotional distress must be proven through psychiatric records. Typically, a person must have a diagnosis of post traumatic stress disorder or something similar in order to qualify for damages of this nature.

5. Wrongful Death.

If the victim of an accident dies as a result of the accident—whether immediately or after treatment—the family can be compensated for their losses. Losses in a wrongful death suit include loss of companionship, lost income, and emotional distress.

A personal injury can be very severe, and can significantly disrupt a person’s life. The legal associates at The Law Offices of Katzman, Logan, Halper and Bennett, LPA advocate on behalf of personal injury victims to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve following an accident. If you are a victim of personal injury, call 513-793-4400 to schedule a consultation or visit their website to learn more.