In personal injury law, "damages" is the word we use for the money you can seek as compensation for your injuries. From medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering, we will break down each type of compensation, providing you with a clearer understanding of your rights and options.
When you suffer an injury due to someone else’s negligence, whether it’s in an auto accident, a slip and fall, or any other type of incident, the path to financial recovery can be daunting. At The Sullivan Law Firm, we help you understand what you’re entitled to and guide you through the process. In personal injury law, “damages” is the word we use for the money you can seek as compensation for your injuries. From medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering, we will break down each type of compensation, providing you with a clearer understanding of your rights and options.
Types of Personal Injury Claims
In personal injury law, you can seek three types of damages: special, general, and punitive. Special and general damages are frequently grouped together under the term “compensatory damages.” Since special and general damages both fall under this broader category, it’s common for some confusion to arise regarding their specific roles and definitions.
What Are Compensatory Damages?
The main goal of compensatory damages is to replace what you’ve lost because of your injury. Think of it as a way to help put things right financially. There are two main types of compensatory damages: Special and General.
What Are Special Damages?
Special damages, or economic damages, are the financial expenses that can be calculated specifically. These damages are called “special” because they vary from one case to another, reflecting the unique financial impact of the injury on the person affected.
Special damages typically include, but are not limited to:
The calculation of special damages is straightforward: it is the total of all bills and receipts. However, future expenses like ongoing medical care or lost earning capacity require expert testimony to estimate accurately.
What Are General Damages?
General damages, or non-economic damages, cover losses that are not financial but still have a significant impact on your life.
Examples of General Damages include:
The calculation of general damages is more subjective and depends on the severity of the injury and its long-term effects on your life.
What Are Punitive Damages?
If the person who caused your injury acted in a way that was especially reckless or harmful, you may also be able to recover punitive damages. These damages are not about compensating you but are instead meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar future behavior. Punitive damages aren’t common, but they play a crucial role in cases where the misconduct was particularly egregious.
For a deeper dive into punitive damages and when they might be recoverable, check out our detailed blog post on the subject here. It provides a thorough exploration of what punitive damages are and how they can be a significant part of your legal strategy.
How The Sullivan Law Firm Can Help
Dealing with the legal complexities of a personal injury can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it by yourself. At The Sullivan Law Firm, we understand that the journey to recovery after an injury isn’t just physical. We’re dedicated to ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve. If you or someone you love is dealing with an injury, contact us today for a free consultation.
We handle personal injury cases all across Georgia. Insurance companies know us and our track record, so most cases settle without having to go to court.
