Damage Awards in a Lawsuit
In the practice of law, some words may have a meaning that is different from how the word is used in day to day life. One such example is the term “Damages”. In a lawsuit, damages may refer to the amount of money a judge or jury awards as compensation for a loss or injury.
An award of damages is intended to compensate a plaintiff, the injured person bringing the lawsuit, so that they are in the same position they would have been had the injury not occurred. This award may include a number of economic and non-economic considerations.
Most easily quantifiable are financial losses suffered by the plaintiff, such as:
- Medical bills resulting from the injury – including both past and anticipated future expenses
- Lost income, benefits or reduced earning capacity
- Property repair bills
- Funeral expenses
Damage awards will often also take into account non-monetary losses, which will depend on the plaintiff’s individual circumstances. Examples of these types of damages may include:
- Physical or emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of consortium – the relationship benefits between family members
- Disfigurement
- Loss or impairment of mental or physical capacity
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Every case stands on its own facts, and damage awards will depend upon a number of factors, including, but not limited to, age, income, health, and the type and extent of an individuals injuries.
Of course, in a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit, no amount of money will compensate someone for the losses they have suffered. Nevertheless, it is important to hold a party accountable for their misdeeds, and to discourage behavior that can cause harm to others. Contact the Nashville injury attorneys of Pohl & Berk, LLP today to find out how we can help you get the justice you deserve.
