How Much is Pain and Suffering Worth in a Pennsylvania Accident Claim?
Many accidents, even the most minor of fender-benders, sometimes lead to the most extensive injuries and harm. The physical injuries that stem from a car accident are often the first type of injuries that are considered in an accident. However, there are some types of damages and emotional injuries that are more difficult to calculate when it comes to a claim. Seeking damages for pain and suffering is not always easy to do, which is why you should have the help of an attorney on your side.
Understanding Pain and Suffering Damages
Pain and suffering damages are a type of noneconomic damage. This means that these damages are not calculable like damages that stem from medical bills, lost income, and more. The circumstances of your claim will likely determine how much you will receive when it comes to pain and suffering damages. This means that they vary on a case-to-case basis. Pain and suffering damages include some of the following aspects:
- Past and future pain caused by your injuries
- Mental suffering and anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Anxiety
- Humiliation
- Emotional distress
Proving That You Sustained Pain and Suffering
The first step in compensating for pain and suffering is proving that you suffered these damages in the first place due to your accident. The best way to do this is by receiving medical documentation. By speaking with an attorney about your complaints, you can gather the necessary evidence that you need. You should speak with your doctor about the effect that these injuries have had on every aspect of your life, such as your everyday living.
If you have not been able to engage in certain activities due to your injuries, you are likely to receive a larger settlement offer. Those around you will be able to testify on your behalf when it comes to the injuries you have sustained and how they have affected your life. They will also be able to tell the court how your life has changed significantly since the accident.
Insurance Adjusters and Determining Pain and Suffering Value
Insurance adjusters will look at several aspects when it comes to determining the value of your claim. They will mostly look at your medical bills, lost earnings, and testimony of others around you when it comes to making you an offer. If you try to settle your claim early with the insurance adjuster, they will attempt to offer you much less than you deserve. Having the testimony of a doctor and lots of useful evidence on your side will maximize how much you will receive in your claim for pain and suffering damages, even by thousands.
Having the Help of a Pennsylvania Accident Attorney on Your Side
Speaking with a Pennsylvania personal injury attorney after an accident can ensure that your rights are being protected after a car accident. In the blink of an eye, your life could be turned upside-down if you have sustained serious injuries in a car accident. At Edelstein Martin & Nelson, we are here for you every step of the way as you navigate the legal system for the first time. Our attorneys will stand by your side every step of the way. Please contact a car accident attorney in Pennsylvania at (215) 731-9900 for more information on how we can help you in your time of need.
