When we aim to recover damages for our clients, we are working on multiple levels. We understand that the accident or injury could have been jarring and terrible for everyone involved. We, however, must abide by the rules set forth by the state of Maryland. When we sue on our client’s behalf, we will use our experience in the industry to request:nn Economic damages: These damages provide compensation for medical bills, future medical bills, lost wages, and lost earning capacity. Someone who has been injured has likely missed work, lost their job, or cannot obtain gainful employment again. These people may also need lifelong medical care because of the extent of their injuries. We simply want to reclaim what that person would have reasonably earned if they had not been injured.n Non-economic damages: These damages include compensation for things such as pain and suffering, a loss of sleep, flashbacks caused by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a loss of companionship. Owing to the trauma involved, marriages could break up, friendships could end, and a lifetime network of support could be lost because of an accident or injury. The cap for non-economic damages in Maryland is currently $875,000.n Punitive damages: These damages are awarded by the state or a jury during a personal injury case when the accident is so egregious that the state feels the need to punish the defendant. These damages are not designed to represent the financial windfall that may come from economic damages.nnWhen we take on cases, we ask to see all the medical bills and evaluations for the case. We are calculating both current and future medical care, and that number will be used as part of the suit. We will calculate damages in a way that makes sense to the court, and we will not ask for anything more than the cap set by the state. We will also petition the court for punitive damages in all cases. Reckless people who cause accidents, injuries, and even deaths should be punished by the state, and punitive damages will serve as restitution for their actions.