There are two categories of damages that might be available after a personal injury or wrongful death: compensatory damages and punitive damages. Compensatory damages encompass the economic and non-economic losses arising from the tort. They are awarded to make the victim(s) “whole again.” Punitive damages, however, are intended to punish the defendant and to deter similar transgressions in the future. Every successful personal injury or wrongful death case will yield some amount of … [Read more...]
How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
Most people cannot afford to miss a single paycheck, so when they’re sidelined from work with a serious injury, it doesn’t take long to fall behind on essential bills. This is especially true if they’re having to pay deductibles and copays for immediate medical care. If you’ve suffered a personal injury and are now facing the possibility of severe debt or even bankruptcy, you’re probably wondering how much your claim might be worth. Because every case is unique and settlement figures can vary … [Read more...]
When Are Family Members Entitled to Emotional Distress Damages?
In the state of California, personal injury victims have the right to pursue compensation for any economic and non-economic damages they incur. Under some circumstances, a person who witnessed a serious accident also has the right to seek compensation for the negligent infliction of emotional distress—even if he or she wasn’t physically injured. Until 1968, courts typically dismissed emotional distress claims unless the plaintiff could prove the defendant’s conduct placed him or her in harm’s … [Read more...]