A Guide To The Types Of Personal Injury Damages Awards

Thursday, May 13th, 2010 at 7:10 pm

As a result of an accident, victims can suffer a loss in income, lose their jobs and reduce the way of life they had been living. It can cause undue stress in trying to pay for surviving, and can force many people into financially struggling. Accident victims can be helped through personal injury damages as awarded by a jury.

Different types of damages that can be awarded

Monetary. These can cover medical expenses that are incurred by the accident. They can also include any ongoing treatment you need related to it, and include physical therapy to get better. If it was a severe accident, they can also provide health coverage related to it fort the remainder of your life. Awards can be given to refit your home to allow you live there and can compensate for time lost of jobs and future earnings.

Non-Monetary. This is given as a money amount for the pain and emotional stress you have as a result of the accident. They pay for pain and emotional stress from trying to cope with an accident, and is given in addition to other awards.

Punitive. This is a punishment that can be given by the jury when the defendant shows a history of high risk behaviors that could have been controlled. It is not always given by juries to the victim, and is typically only given in the event of significant negligence on the part of the defendant.

Settlements

Lump Sum. You get a cash award for the full amount that was given to you by a jury. Typically this is given to those that will be able to work again, or the injuries are not life altering.

Structured. These are given in payments over time, and sometimes are awarded to ensure the victim does get paid. They can help to allow you to live with a monthly income resulting from grievous injuries that will have long term effects.

Personal injury damages are awarded through a jury and require representation by an attorney to ensure you get the best settlement. You should choose an experienced attorney that you connect with.