When you’ve been injured because of someone else’s actions, it’s not just about the pain—it’s about the financial, emotional, and physical toll it takes on your life. That’s where damages come in. In Georgia, damages are the compensation you’re entitled to for what you’ve been through, and understanding how they work is key to getting what you deserve. At Benavidez Law Firm, we’re here to break it down for you and help you every step of the way.
Types of Damages You Can Claim
In Georgia, damages in personal injury cases are divided into three main categories:
1. Economic Damages
These cover your out-of-pocket costs, like:
- Medical bills: Whether it’s hospital stays, rehab, or medications, you can get compensation for current and future treatment.
- Lost wages: If your injury kept you out of work, you can recover what you lost—and even future earnings if it impacts your job long-term.
- Property damage: If something like your car was damaged in the accident, those costs can be covered too.
2. Non-Economic Damages
This is about the personal impact of your injury, including:
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and the emotional strain it’s caused.
- Loss of enjoyment: If you can’t do the things you love anymore, this compensates for that loss.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or trauma caused by the accident.
3. Punitive Damages
These aren’t common, but they’re meant to punish the at-fault party if their actions were especially reckless or intentional. In Georgia, these damages are capped at $250,000, except for certain cases.
How Damages Are Calculated
Figuring out damages isn’t as simple as adding up receipts. While economic damages are straightforward (keep those medical bills and pay stubs!), non-economic damages require showing how your life has been affected. Georgia also follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you’re partly at fault. For example, if you’re 20% responsible, your damages will be reduced by that percentage. But if you’re more than 50% at fault, you won’t receive any compensation.
Why Having a Lawyer Matters
Let’s be real—insurance companies aren’t looking out for you. They’ll try to downplay your injuries or offer you less than what you deserve. That’s where we come in. At Benavidez Law Firm, we know how to fight for you. From collecting evidence to negotiating with insurers, we’re here to make sure you get the compensation you’re entitled to.
Let’s Get Started
If you’ve been injured in Georgia, don’t go through this alone. Contact Benavidez Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through your case, explain your options, and fight to get you the justice you deserve. Let’s work together to move forward.
