When people think about accident claims, they often picture medical bills and lost wages. While these are important, not all damages translate into dollars and receipts. Accidents also bring emotional scars and permanent changes in the way victims live their day-to-day lives.
These are known as non-economic damages, and they are equally vital as monetary figures. Courts often recognize that mental health struggles, suffering, and reduced quality of life ought to be compensated for as well. Below are PTSD and other non-economic damages you can get compensated for.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is one of the most common non-economic damages after a major accident. Victims can relive the episode in flashbacks, nightmares, or crushing anxiety. As a result, even everyday activities like driving, walking near traffic, or even sleeping can become an issue. But, PTSD symptoms after a car accident can sometimes never show up. So, even if you don’t get any injury after an accident, you should seek medical attention.
Pain And Suffering
Pain and suffering cover the physical and emotional adversity that extends far beyond an accident. The category is broad in range, covering temporary aches due to injury and persistent pain that can last for years.
Courts use a multiplier system in some jurisdictions, adding up economic losses and multiplying by a figure based on the severity of pain. The concept is to recognize recovery as more than just a question of penning checks to pay for doctors’ bills, but also compensation for tolerable discomfort.
Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life
Accidents usually take away from the victim the ability to enjoy pastimes, sports, or even daily tasks. A victim who enjoyed running, travelling, or music playing may no longer be capable of doing so. Loss of enjoyment damages recognize this important life change. Some of the activities that may fall into this category are:
- Social outings with friends and relatives
- Artistic expression, such as music or painting
- Travel or leisure activities
These losses are not monetary but have a significant impact on one’s happiness and satisfaction.
Anxiety
Most victims of accidents experience continuing anxiety that interferes with normal functioning. This may be constant worry, fear of a particular location, or panic during stressful situations. Anxiety can be minor for some and debilitating for others.
Compensation for anxiety is determined by how much it restricts an individual’s freedom and comfort daily. Similar to PTSD and emotional distress, evidence often consists of medical records or statements from mental health experts.
Takeaways
Non-economic damages don’t necessarily come with receipts, but they are real, painful, and life-changing. These damages are awarded by courts so that victims are able to get proper compensation for more than dollars and cents.
For anyone who has gone through the recovery process from an accident, understanding non-economic damages can be the difference between full and adequate recovery. The following are key takeaways from PTSD and non-economic damages you can get compensated for;
- PTSD is a valid condition that can be treated and needs continuing care.
- Pain and suffering counteract ongoing discomfort above medical costs.
- Loss of enjoyment includes leisure and activities that are no longer possible after an accident.
- Anxiety is an ordinary and compensable condition in the context of accidents.
