pain and suffering male with accident injury

What Qualifies as Pain and Suffering in Georgia?

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Accident victims understand that pain comes in different forms. Some injuries are visible, while others go unseen. There are two different types of damages awarded in personal injury claims as well: economic and non-economic. So just where does pain and suffering fall into all of this? Let us explain!

Economic damages include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and more – while non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify. Because pain and suffering does not come with an invoice that can be presented in the courtroom, assigning a dollar amount requires the help of an experienced personal injury law firm.

Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers will fight to maximize the settlement you receive, always doing our best to prove your claim – even those that are tricky to calculate. Read on, then contact Ross Moore Law today to schedule your free consultation!

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What Is Considered Pain and Suffering in Georgia?

Here in the state of Georgia, pain and suffering encompasses physical pain, mental distress, and other losses – of enjoyment of life, of the ability to work, etc. Our compassionate legal team understands that, while mental anguish may not be evident to outsiders, it is very real to those experiencing it. That’s why we will advocate for non-economic damages, ensuring you never settle for less than you deserve. 

Pain and suffering includes the following:

  • Physical pain (past and future)
  • Mental anguish (past and future)
  • Shock 
  • Disruption to normal living
  • Inability to enjoy daily life, hobbies, etc.
  • Inability to work and earn a living
  • Distress to loved ones 
  • Disruption to bodily health
  • Anxiety about the severity of the injury
  • Medical bills and treatment 

Factors That Affect Non-Economic Damages in GA 

There is no specific equation to calculate pain and suffering damages, so it is crucial to have a strong Atlanta personal injury attorney advocating for you throughout the legal process. These factors may influence the non-economic damages you receive:

  • Length of your recovery
  • Injury severity
  • Amount of pain suffered
  • Degree of accident-related stress, anxiety, depression, etc. 
  • Impact of injuries on everyday life
  • Whether you were able to return to work
  • Whether you suffered permanent impairment/disability

How Are Pain and Suffering Damages Calculated?

Two common methods are used to quantify non-economic damages.

Method #1: The Multiplier Method
This method is often used by insurance companies. Medical expenses are added, then multiplied by a number between 1.5 and 5. As a general rule, the more severe the injury and the longer the recovery time, the higher the multiplier.

Method #2: The Per Diem Method
This method calculates pain and suffering on a daily basis, usually by counting the number of days between the accident and the date your doctor releases you. That number is then multiplied by a certain daily rate that is based on your daily wages.

Evidence of Pain and Suffering

Part of strengthening your accident claim is gathering evidence. To maximize the damages you receive, your Atlanta personal injury lawyer will gather the following:

  • Medical records 
  • Test images / lab results
  • Receipts for pain medications
  • Testimony from loved ones, friends, coworkers, etc.
  • Testimony from medical and economic experts 
  • Your own testimony 

Contact A Good Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me, Choose Ross Moore Law Today!

If you or a loved one have been injured, contact Ross Moore Law today! Our law office, based here in Atlanta, GA, is proud to serve accident victims throughout the region – including the cities of Athens, Marietta, Alpharetta, and beyond!

In addition, you only pay us if we win your personal injury case.

When you are in need of a good personal injury lawyer near me, you can reach us. Attorney Ross Moore and our dedicated legal team is committed to securing the settlement you deserve, including non-economic damages. Call us today or message us online to schedule your free consultation! 

Ross Moore Law has experience handling the following types of personal injury cases: 

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