By Pierce Blitch
What Are General Damages in Georgia Auto Injury Cases?
As a personal injury attorney in Evans, Georgia, I often get asked, “What does general damages mean in an auto accident personal injury claim in Georgia?”
Defining General Damages
General damages are meant to compensate for the injury itself. They are the monetary value assigned to the harm done to the plaintiff. If the injury is minor or there are strong mitigating circumstances, only a small amount, known as nominal damages, is awarded. The exact amount is determined by the jury based on the specifics of the case.
Medical Expenses
All necessary expenses resulting from the injury are valid damages. This includes medical bills, such as those for hospital stays, doctor visits, and medications. The amount awarded should reflect the reasonable cost of these necessary medical expenses.
Lost Earnings
Loss of earnings from the time of the injury to the trial date is also considered damages. The jury will look at what the plaintiff was earning before the injury, what they’ve earned since, and the usual pay for similar work in the area. There must be evidence showing the plaintiff’s loss of earnings due to the injury.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering are legitimate damages. The amount is based on the jury’s enlightened conscience. They will consider how much and how long the plaintiff has suffered and will continue to suffer. Mental suffering is included only if there is also physical suffering. If future pain and suffering are expected, damages should be awarded for that as well.
No Recovery for Unrelated Injuries
Plaintiffs cannot recover damages for injuries or disabilities not caused by the defendant’s actions. However, if the plaintiff had a preexisting condition that was worsened by the defendant’s negligence, they could recover damages for the aggravation of that condition.
Damages for Emotional Distress
In cases where the injury affects the plaintiff’s peace, happiness, or feelings, the damages are determined by the jury’s enlightened conscience. They will consider the parties’ circumstances, any bad faith, and all relevant facts to decide on a fair amount.
Understanding general damages in an auto injury claim can be complex. It involves evaluating medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and the impact on the plaintiff’s life.
CALL THE Blitch Law Firm ATTORNEYS AT LAW TODAY TO DISCUSS YOUR PERSONAL INJURY CASE
We fight for you, and we don’t back down. Every personal injury case has potentially life-altering consequences. We don’t hold back on providing our clients the best possible representation. At The Blitch Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a personal injury case can take. If you, a family member, or a close friend has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact The Blitch Law Firm today at 706-434-8770 or visit us at 7004 Evans Town Center Blvd., Third Floor, Evans, Georgia 30809 to discuss your unique case and our dedicated personal injury strategies with one of our compassionate and experienced attorneys.
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