Types of Compensation Awarded for Personal Injury Cases in Georgia
Medical expenses often generally form the largest component of a personal injury claim. After an accident, hospital bills pile up quickly, including costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, and extended hospital stays. Beyond immediate medical attention, rehabilitation expenses are also significant. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other specialized care required to help you recover.
Additionally, rehabilitation may be a long-term necessity, depending on the severity of your injuries, and this can generate substantial expenses over time. And the cost of long-term care can be a major consideration for accident victims who suffer from severe or permanent injuries. These expenses include ongoing medical treatments, in-home care, and assisted living facilities.
The cost of prescription drugs can likewise be significant, especially if long-term medication is required to manage pain or other conditions resulting from the injury. Medical equipment may include specialized mobility aids such as walkers and electric wheelchairs. Many patients require home modifications such as ramps, grab bars, transfer benches, and accessible bathtubs.
Personal injury claims may cover lost wages, ensuring that victims are fairly compensated for the time they are unable to work. This compensation is crucial for providing everyday living expenses and maintaining financial stability while you focus on your recovery.
The loss of future earning potential is another important consideration when an injury leads to a permanent disability or restricts future employment opportunities. This may include adjustments for retraining costs and potential loss of earnings, such as promotions or advancements that might have occurred if not for the injury.
Compensation for self-employment income may cover a variety of income sources, including lost contracts, missed business opportunities, and decreased productivity. Calculating this loss requires a thorough examination of previous earnings, business records, and potential future income.
Physical pain resulting from a personal injury can be chronic and debilitating, significantly impacting the patient’s quality of life. Medical records, pain management treatment, and personal testimony are often used to substantiate claims for physical pain.
Emotional distress is also important in determining pain and suffering in a personal injury case. It covers the psychological impact of an injury, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional turmoil. This compensation can provide the necessary resources for therapy, counseling, and other mental health services.
Further, the full impact of a personal injury on the victim’s quality of life is often profound. Beyond physical pain and emotional distress, injuries may significantly alter your daily routine, hobbies, social interactions, and overall enjoyment of life. These changes can be devastating. Evidence supporting these claims can include personal testimony, statements from family and friends, and professional assessments.
Punitive damages, also called exemplary damages, may also be available in Georgia when the defendant’s actions demonstrate “willful misconduct, malice, fraud, wantonness, oppression or the entire want of care.” These damages are meant to set an example and discourage others from engaging in similar types of heinous and destructive behavior.
