What is Pain and Suffering in a Personal Injury Case?

Pain and suffering is the physical pain and emotional anguish a victim endures as a result of a personal injury accident. Emotional anguish can include depression, anxiety, insomnia, irritability and more. The injuries you suffer in an accident can affect many areas of your life, including your ability to work and participate in activities with friends and family. Unfortunately, even after physically recovering from your injuries, you might be experiencing pain and complications stemming from feelings of fear and anxiety.

How are Damages for Pain and Suffering Calculated?

The pain and suffering you have experienced is difficult to calculate and is very subjective. To calculate pain and suffering damages, the following are taken into account.

Pain: The pain you have experienced because of your injuries include:

·         The pain you suffered in the accident

·         The pain that you experienced from treatment of your injuries

·         Chronic pain you may experience after your recovery

Suffering: Many personal injury victims experience psychological and emotional problems after an accident. These include:

·         Nervousness, anxiety and fear

·         Isolation and depression

·         Lack of sleep and fatigue

·         Digestive problems

·         Other physical expressions of stress such as headaches, heart palpitations and muscle pain

How to Prove Pain and Suffering

Your personal injury attorney will prove your pain and suffering utilizing the following evidence:

·         Medical records

·         Receipts for prescriptions and over-the-counter medication bills

·         Medical bills for treatment, therapy, emergency room visits and treatment by mental health professionals

·         Proof of time off from work

·         Pictures of your injuries

·         Statements from family and friends documenting the effect of your injuries on relationships and in other areas of life