When someone is injured because of negligence, the question almost always comes up: “What can I recover?” In legal terms, we call these damages: the losses you’ve suffered because of the injury.
Economic damages (the measurable costs)
These are the straightforward, dollar-based losses:
- Medical expenses: hospital bills, doctor visits, surgery, therapy, medication.
- Future medical care: if your injury requires ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages: income you missed while recovering.
- Lost earning capacity: if you can’t return to the same work in the future.
Non-economic damages (the human costs)
Not all losses show up on a receipt. Georgia law also allows recovery for:
- Pain and suffering: the physical pain and discomfort you’ve endured.
- Emotional distress: anxiety, depression, trauma from the injury.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: not being able to do the things you once loved.
- Loss of consortium: the impact on a spouse or close family relationships.
Punitive damages
In cases where the defendant’s conduct was especially reckless or intentional, like drunk driving, the court may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish bad behavior and deter others, not just compensate the victim.
Why damages aren’t “one size fits all”
Two people can have similar injuries but very different damages. Age, career, medical history, and lifestyle all play a role in how an injury affects someone’s life. That’s why your lawyer gathers detailed medical records, bills, and even testimony from doctors or experts.
The bottom line
Damages are about making you whole, as much as money can. Understanding the categories helps you see why building a thorough, evidence-backed case is so important. It ensures you’re not just compensated for the bills on your desk today, but also for the long-term impact on your life.