When we think about compensation for a car accident, the first things that come to mind are medical bills and vehicle repairs. However, not all damages are financial. Pain and suffering damages play a crucial role in personal injury claims, as they account for the physical and emotional toll of an accident. But how exactly are these damages calculated? As Raleigh, NC car accident lawyers, we guide our clients through this complex process to ensure they receive the full compensation they deserve.
What Are Pain And Suffering Damages?
Pain and suffering damages refer to the non-economic losses a victim experiences after a car accident. These include:
- Physical pain – Chronic pain, discomfort, or long-term injuries that affect daily life.
- Emotional distress – Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological effects caused by the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in hobbies, activities, or personal relationships as before.
- Scarring or disfigurement – Permanent physical changes that impact self-esteem and well-being.
Because these damages are subjective, they can be more difficult to quantify compared to medical expenses or lost wages. However, there are common methods that insurance companies and courts use to calculate pain and suffering compensation.
Methods For Calculating Pain And Suffering
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula for determining pain and suffering damages, but two main methods are commonly used:
1. The Multiplier Method
One of the most frequently used methods is the multiplier method, which involves multiplying the total economic damages (such as medical bills and lost wages) by a number typically ranging from 1.5 to 5. The more severe and long-lasting the injuries, the higher the multiplier.
For example, if medical expenses and lost wages total $20,000, and a multiplier of 3 is applied due to significant pain and long-term recovery, pain and suffering damages would be $60,000.
2. The Per Diem Method
The per diem (daily rate) method assigns a dollar amount to each day the victim experiences pain and suffering. This rate is often based on the victim’s daily earnings or another reasonable figure.
For instance, if we assign $200 per day and the victim suffers for 180 days, the total pain and suffering compensation would be $36,000.
Factors That Influence Pain And Suffering Compensation
Several factors determine how much a victim can receive for pain and suffering damages, including:
- Severity of injuries – More serious or permanent injuries result in higher compensation.
- Medical treatment required – Long-term treatment, surgeries, or therapy can increase the award.
- Impact on daily life – If the injuries prevent the victim from working or enjoying life as before, the claim becomes stronger.
- Evidence and documentation – Medical records, expert testimony, and personal journals can support a claim for pain and suffering.
How We Help Maximize Your Compensation
At Burton Law Firm, we understand that pain and suffering damages are just as important as medical expenses. Insurance companies often try to downplay these damages, but we fight to ensure our clients are fairly compensated. By gathering strong evidence, consulting medical experts, and using proven calculation methods, we build a solid case for maximum recovery.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t underestimate the value of your pain and suffering. Contact us today, and let’s work together to get you the compensation you deserve.