What Kinds of Damages Can You Recover After a Personal Injury in Philadelphia?
If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you might find yourself facing not only physical pain but also financial strain. Understandably, one of the most pressing questions you might have is: What kind of damages can I recover? Pennsylvania personal injury law allows victims to claim several forms of compensation, known in the law as “damages,” to compensate for their losses and injuries. Below we look at some of the most common forms of damages recoverable after a personal injury. If you or a loved one has been hurt because of someone else’s negligence in Philadelphia, contact Benedum Law to speak with an experienced and effective Chestnut Hill personal injury lawyer.
1. Economic Damages
Economic damages, also known as special damages, are the financial losses directly linked to the injury. These are typically clear-cut costs that can be calculated based on bills and other financial statements. Common types of economic damages include:
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Medical Expenses: This covers everything from emergency room visits, surgical costs, and hospital stays to ongoing rehabilitative therapies and prescription medications.
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Lost Wages: If your injuries have forced you to take time away from work, you can claim compensation for the wages you have lost. This also includes loss of earning capacity if your ability to earn money in the future has been compromised due to long-term disability or chronic pain.
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Property Damage: If any of your property was damaged as a result of the accident (such as your vehicle in a car crash), you can be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
2. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages, or general damages, compensate for non-financial losses that are often subjective and therefore harder to quantify. They nevertheless compensate for very real harm and are an important part of most personal injury claims. Non-economic damages include:
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Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you have suffered because of your injuries. This encompasses both the immediate pain and any ongoing discomfort.
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Emotional Distress: Separate from pain and suffering, this covers psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
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Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse, you might be eligible to claim loss of consortium, which pertains to the loss of love, companionship, comfort, and support.
3. Punitive Damages
In cases where the defendant’s actions are found to be especially harmful or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. These are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future. It’s important to note that punitive damages are relatively rare in personal injury cases and are typically only involved in cases with particularly reckless or intentional harm.
Contact Benedum Law for Skilled Legal Help With Personal Injury Claims in Philadelphia
Understanding the types of damages you can recover can provide some reassurance during the difficult period following an injury. However, navigating personal injury law can be complex, and the amount you can recover will depend heavily on the specifics of your case.
At Benedum Law, our dedicated team has a deep understanding of Pennsylvania personal injury law and the expertise to fight for the full compensation you deserve. Whether you’re dealing with an insurance company or facing a court trial, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you’ve been injured and are unsure about your next steps, contact us today for a free consultation at 215-529-7848 to explore your options and start your journey toward recovery.
