Car accidents can cause more than just physical injuries.
Many victims suffer from emotional distress, pain, and other non-economic damages that impact their lives. While it is easier to prove economic damages like medical bills and lost wages, proving non-economic damages requires a different approach.
You may need to hire a car accident lawyer to help prove these damages and receive fair compensation. A skilled attorney can gather evidence to support your claim for non-economic damages.
What are Non-Economic Damages?
Non-economic damages refer to the losses that do not have a specific dollar amount attached. These damages play a vital role in personal injury law as it compensates victims for the intangible losses incurred due to another person’s negligence.
Unlike medical bills or lost wages, these damages are subjective and vary from person to person. According to a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, victims of significantly severe accidents often experience significant emotional distress, loss of consortium, and reduced quality of life.
Ways to Prove Non-Economic Damages
Since non-economic damages are subjective, proving them requires strong evidence. Below are some key ways to support your claim:
Personal Testimony
One of the best ways to prove non-economic damages is through your own testimony. Describe how the accident affected your daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being. Be specific about:
- The pain you feel every day
- The activities you can no longer do
- How your mood and mental health have changed
Medical Records and Reports
Even though non-economic damages are not directly related to medical expenses, your medical records can help. Doctors and therapists can provide reports showing the extent of your injuries and how they impact your life. Some useful documents include:
- Physician notes on your pain levels
- Psychiatric evaluations for PTSD or anxiety
- Therapy session reports
Testimony from Family and Friends
Loved ones can give insight into how the accident changed you. Family members, friends, and co-workers can describe:
- Changes in your personality
- Difficulties in relationships
- Your inability to engage in hobbies or work
Their testimonies help confirm your claims and show how the accident affected you beyond physical injuries.
Expert Witnesses
Experts like psychologists, therapists, and medical professionals can testify about the long-term effects of your injuries. For example:
- A psychiatrist can discuss your emotional distress
- A physical therapist can explain how your injuries cause ongoing pain
- An economist can assess the impact on your quality of life
Pain and Suffering Journal
Maintaining a daily journal of your pain and emotions can serve as valuable evidence. This documentation provides a detailed record of your suffering over time. This often should include:
- Your pain levels each day
- Emotional struggles like anxiety or depression
- Activities you can no longer do
Conclusion
Proving non-economic damages in a car accident case requires strong evidence and careful documentation. Personal testimony, medical reports, expert witnesses, and pain journals all help strengthen your claim.
If you are struggling to prove non-economic damages, consider working with an experienced car accident lawyer to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.