In Oklahoma, people who suffer injuries in accidents caused by others can seek compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other financial losses. Additionally, accident victims can also be entitled to money for losses that are less easily calculated, like pain and suffering.
But what is pain and suffering? Certainly, we all feel pain and distress after an accident. But legally speaking, damages for pain and suffering refer to specific non-economic losses. Keep reading to learn more from the Oklahoma City personal injury lawyers at Ryan Bisher Ryan and & Simons.
What Are Pain and Suffering Damages?
Compensation for pain and suffering usually covers both the physical pain and emotional anguish a victim suffered due to an accident.
Physical pain and suffering accounts for the discomfort and pain you endured and will experience in the future due to your injuries and recovery (e.g., pain after surgery or during rehabilitation and therapy, etc.).
Emotional or mental pain and suffering damages address accident-related emotional distress, psychological trauma, lost enjoyment of life, humiliation, embarrassment, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression that you experience due to the accident and your injuries.
What Are Pain and Suffering Damages in a Personal Injury Case?
A personal injury claimant can request compensation for pain and suffering for:
- Physical pain resulting from the accident
- Mental health issues stemming from the injury
- Lost quality of life, if the injuries cause lasting disabilities
- Loss of enjoyment of life
How Can I Document My Pain and Suffering?
Compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and earning ability are calculated by referencing bills, invoices, receipts, and W-2s or income statements. However, determining how to calculate pain and suffering requires a more subjective analysis.
You can help your claim for compensation by keeping a “pain journal” documenting your recovery process. Record the physical pain you experience during your recovery, how your injuries impact your daily living or ability to work, and the emotional effect of the injuries on your life. Don’t exaggerate or minimize the extent of your pain and suffering. The insurance company can sense when someone is untruthful.
Along with your journal, you can also help document your pain and suffering by getting testimonials from your family, friends, and co-workers about how your injuries impact your life.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Oklahoma City Today
At Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simmons, we understand that accidents take more than just a financial toll. Let us help you pursue maximum pain and suffering compensation. Call, chat with us live, or fill a contact form today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
We are Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons, a legal firm that, for decades, has been fighting for the rights of hardworking Oklahoma residents. Our mission is to hold the powerful accountable.
