To understand how pain and suffering compensation is calculated in personal injury cases, you need to differentiate between economic and non-economic damages. Economic ones involve quantifiable costs, like lost wages and medical bills. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, cover emotional and physical pain stemming from injuries. Below are three personal injury consequences that can fall under pain and suffering.

What Qualifies as Pain & Suffering After a Personal Injury?

1. Mental Anguish

A personal injury not only causes physical suffering, but it can also bring mental and emotional distress. Accident victims grapple with several emotions, including shock, worry, grief, and trauma. Mental anguish is mainly a result of bodily injuries, and victims can seek compensation for the intangible pain that continues to affect their lives even after their physical wounds have healed. 

For instance, you may be entitled to compensation when a collision due to another's negligence has caused you to experience fear and anxiety whenever you're behind the wheel. Such emotional distress can make it difficult for you to go back to work and carry out everyday activities.

2. Inconveniences from an Impairment or Disability

Some injuries are so severe that they lead to permanent disability, drastically altering a person's life. In such cases, victims may be awarded substantial compensation. 

Some examples include paralysis, blindness, impaired brain function, and the loss of a limb. Such impairments cause inconveniences, forcing victims to change their lifestyles, undergo long-term physical therapy or rehabilitation, or depend on other people, dogs, or technology for assistance.

3. Loss of the Capacity to Enjoy Life

Loss of enjoyment damages compensate individuals whose injuries have prevented them from taking part in activities they previously enjoyed. Reasons to seek damages under this type of pain and suffering can include one's inability to participate in past hobbies or sports, reduced life expectancy, loss of one of the senses, ill health, disfigurement, and scarring. 

When you've been injured in an accident, protect yourself and your future by turning to the attorneys at Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt in Sparta, WI. You can expect excellent advice and representation from these friendly legal experts, whether you need a personal injury lawyer, divorce attorney, or real estate attorney. Call them today at (608) 269-2400 to schedule your free initial consultation, or visit their website to send them a message online.