How to Calculate Pain and Suffering Compensation

What is pain and suffering compensation?

Pain and suffering damages compensate for the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by an injury. Unlike medical bills or lost wages, these damages are non-economic, reflecting the personal impact of the injury.

Multiplier Method

This method multiplies your total economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.) by a number between 1.5 and 5. The multiplier depends on injury severity and its impact on your life. For example, if your economic damages are $20,000 and the multiplier is 3, your pain and suffering damages would be $60,000. Severe or permanent injuries typically get higher multipliers, while minor injuries receive lower ones.

Per Diem Method

This method assigns a daily dollar amount to your pain and suffering and multiplies it by the number of days you endured the injury’s effects. For instance, if you assign a daily value of $150 and suffer for 100 days, the pain and suffering compensation would be $15,000.

Factors Affecting Calculation

Several factors influence the value of pain and suffering compensation, including:

• The severity and permanence of the injury

• The length and intensity of medical treatment

• How the injury affects your ability to work, hobbies, and family life

• Emotional distress and psychological impact

• Presence of visible scars or disability

• Quality and consistency of medical documentation and expert testimony

Why is a lawyer important?

A skilled personal injury attorney helps determine the appropriate method and multiplier or daily rate for your case, gathers supporting evidence, and negotiates aggressively with insurance companies to maximize your compensation.

Pain and suffering compensation varies greatly based on individual circumstances, and consulting an experienced lawyer ensures your claim accurately reflects the full impact of your injuries.

Call Stockwell Law today for a free consultation and get the dedicated representation you need to move forward.