While economic payouts are mathematical calculations based on factors like medical bills and measurable income loss, the size of a payout for to a claim of non-economic damages is more challenging to calculate and varies greatly from one case to the next depending on the unique circumstances. Whether it’s a settlement from an insurance company or damages awarded by a judge, some factors considered in determining the amount include:
Whether the defendant acted with malice or egregious misconduct
Whether the injury the victim sustained prevents them from participating in sports or hobbies they formerly enjoyed
Whether the victim’s injuries prevents them from carrying out household duties such as cleaning or routine home and lawn maintenance
Whether the injury prevents the victim from playing with their children
If the injury and related surgeries, therapies, and on-going care interferes greatly with the victim’s life or adds undue inconvenience
Non-economic damages aren’t as easily quantifiable as economic ones, but they can greatly effect your lifestyle and your ability to enjoy your life. If these unfortunate circumstances directly resulted as the fault of someone else, you deserve compensation. Even if a monetary award can’t return normality to your life, it can help ease burdens and make such losses more bearable.