If you have suffered a personal injury due to the actions or negligence of another, you may be entitled to damages for the harm that has befallen you. Damages in personal injury cases take many forms and certain rules apply to what types of damages you may be entitled to. Additionally, certain types of damages may have limits on how much of that type of damages you can recover.
Compensatory Damages
When a person is injured due to the fault or negligence of another, the injured party is first and foremost eligible for compensatory damages. Compensatory damages are financial compensation meant to pay back the injured party for losses already incurred due to the injury, and to compensate for future losses and expenses. Compensatory damages can take many forms, including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses. Both incurred medical expenses and future medical expenses can be recovered.
- Compensation for non-economic harm. Non-economic damages can be sought for things like pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life and emotional and mental distress.
- Lost wages. Both past lost wages and future lost earnings can be recovered.
- Lost earning potential. If you have been disabled or are no longer able to earn your income due to your injuries, you may be eligible for lost earning potential.
- Cost of care. If your injuries require care, such as long-term care or in-home care, cost of care compensation can be sought.
- Compensation for disability modifications of the home. If you are rendered disabled and your home needs to be retrofitted to accommodate your disability, compensation can be sought for these purposes.
- Compensation for property damage. If your personal property was damaged, you may seek compensation for your damaged property.
Punitive Damages
Personal injury victims can seek punitive damages as well. Punitive damages are meant to be compensation that is awarded to a victim, and serves as punishment for the liable party when the injury is the result of particularly egregious behavior, misconduct, or negligence. Punitive damages for personal injury claims are capped by law, S.C. Code Section , at the greater of three times the amount of compensatory damages that is awarded to the victim, or $500,000.
Are You In Need of A Personal Injury Lawyer Serving Nashville?
Suffering a personal injury can be difficult. You have to deal with the pain and recovery, lost time off from work, and the financial implications that a personal injury can have on your life. You should seek compensation from those who are responsible for your injuries, and an experienced Nashville personal injury lawyer can help. Consult with a dedicated Nashville injury attorney today to learn your options for recovery in your case.