When most people think about the consequences of an auto accident, slip-and-fall, or any other personal injury incident, they focus solely on the physical injuries that result. However, this is a huge mistake, as failing to consider their emotional distress can result in receiving less compensation than they’re entitled to for the damages they’ve incurred. In most cases, when victims suffer severe bodily injury, they also suffer some degree of psychological trauma alongside it. Emotional distress can make it just as tricky for victims to resume everyday life after a car accident. That said, many victims wonder what damages are available. Please continue reading to learn if you can file a claim for emotional distress following a car accident and how a dedicated Prince George’s County Auto Accident Lawyer can help you fight for your rightful compensation. 

What types of damages are available in personal injury cases?

A personal injury claim can arise from a variety of situations. From car accidents and medical malpractice to slip and fall accidents and defective products, there are countless situations. Generally, the following damages are available in most personal injury cases:

  • Economic damages: Following an accident, you’ll likely incur various financial losses. Your actual out-of-pocket expenses are considered your economic damages. These damages are easily calculable. They can include past and future medical bills, lost wages, household services, vocational rehabilitation, property damage, etc.
  • Non-economic damages: After a car accident, in addition to the financial losses caused by your injuries, you may incur non-monteray, subjective losses. The mental pain and suffering you experienced following an accident is considered your non-economic damages. These damages are not calculable. They can include emotional distress, inconvenience, loss of society and companionship, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, loss of consortium, etc.
  • Punitive damages: These are intended to punish a defendant for their wilful or intentional conduct that causes another person harm. Essentially, they’re designed to prevent others from being hurt by the same or similar actions. It’s crucial to note that these damages are rarely awarded.

Can you file a claim for emotional distress after a car accident?

Firstly, emotional distress refers to the psychological repercussions of living through a traumatic event. In Maryland, any accident that causes mental pain and suffering is grounds for a personal injury case to seek compensation for emotional distress. As mentioned above, you can recover compensation for your non-economic damages. However, you must be able to prove that the emotional distress stems directly from your injuries.

If you’ve suffered immense emotional distress as a result of someone else’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to contact a determined lawyer from the legal team at Timian & Fawcett, LLC. We are prepared to help you fight for the financial compensation you need to get your life back on track.