When confronted with the overwhelming financial burdens of mounting medical expenses and the uncertainty of an extended period off work due to an injury caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s easy to overlook the full scope of damages you may be entitled to claim in a personal injury lawsuit. One such frequently neglected aspect is the “loss of enjoyment of life.” Please continue reading as we explore what you should know about this non-economic damage and how our experienced Queens Personal Injury Attorneys can help you fight for the justice you deserve.
What Constitutes the Loss of Enjoyment of Life?
Loss of enjoyment of life occurs when an injury prevents you from engaging in activities that you once enjoyed and that contributed to your overall well-being. Similar to other non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life is harder to quantify because it doesn’t have a clear monetary value due to its subjective nature. These activities can range from hobbies like hiking or attending concerts to everyday tasks such as cooking or working.
Assigning a monetary figure to the loss of enjoyment of life can be challenging. Several factors can impact how much your claim is worth, including the severity of the injury, the physical impact, the mental impact, and how your injury impacts your relationships and hobbies. It’s important to note that insurance companies technically use one of two methods to calculate non-economic damages: the multiplier or per diem method.
How Can I Prove This Loss?
To successfully claim loss of enjoyment of life in a personal injury lawsuit, you must demonstrate the extent of your damages and their impact on your life.
- Medical Records and Expert Testimony: These are crucial for establishing the nature and extent of your injuries.
- Personal Testimony: You should provide a detailed account of how the injury has affected your ability to participate in activities that you once enjoyed.
- Witness Testimony: Friends and family can attest to the changes in your lifestyle and activities you can no longer partake in.
- Journal entries: Keep detailed notes on daily challenges and limitations. It’s also important to take photos and videos to show your life before and after the injury.
If you have suffered loss of enjoyment of life after an injury that wasn’t your fault, please don’t hesitate to contact a skilled attorney from The Law Offices of George Poulos for a consultation. Our legal team is prepared to help you gather evidence and build a strong case so you can recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
