Slip and fall accidents may cause significant injuries and financial hardships. When pursuing a slip and fall claim in Tennessee, accurately assessing damages is essential to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. You can effectively pursue the compensation you deserve by having a better understanding of the various types of damages available and the factors involved in their evaluation.
Assessing damages in Bartlett slip-and-fall claims requires the skilled guidance of an experienced injury attorney. Reach out to Reaves Law Firm, PLLC, to begin reviewing the details of your situation with your trusted team.
There are usually two categories of compensation, also referred to as damages, an injured person can pursue through civil claims: economic and non-economic. Economic damages are the tangible, quantifiable losses incurred because of the accident. This category covers the cost of medical treatment, including hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical expenses. In addition, injured parties may receive compensation for the income lost due to their injuries, including wages, salaries, bonuses, and other employment benefits. The court may also award financial compensation for future lost earning capacity.
Non-economic damages are subjective and aim to compensate people for the emotional and psychological impact of their slip and fall accidents. It is often challenging to place an accurate monetary value on pain and suffering. Still, the court considers factors such as the severity of the injuries, the impact on daily life, and the duration of the symptoms.
Slip and fall accidents can also cause significant emotional trauma, leading to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other psychological disorders. Therefore, the court may also consider compensation for the resulting emotional distress and the need for therapy or counseling. In addition, if the injuries from the slip and fall accident have diminished the victim’s ability to engage in enjoyable activities and have affected their overall quality of life, they may receive compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life.
In some instances involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages can punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future. However, the court does not often award punitive damages in slip-and-fall claims.
Our trusted team of attorneys can help people who are injured due to the negligence of another accurately assess the available damages in their Memphis slip and fall claim.
Several factors come into play when assessing damages in Memphis slip-and-fall claims. The extent and severity of the person’s injuries directly impact the damages’ value. More severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment, long recovery periods, or resulting in permanent disabilities lead to higher compensation. The injuries’ impact on the victim’s ability to perform daily activities, work, engage in hobbies, or maintain relationships also impacts the evaluation of damages.
Additionally, Tennessee follows the rule of comparative fault, which means that the injured party’s portion of liability for the event may impact the compensation they can recover. For example, the court may reduce damages by the percentage of fault the injured person holds. The strength of the evidence, including medical records, photographs, witness statements, and expert opinions, also plays a crucial role in accurately assessing damages.
Assessing damages in Memphis slip and fall claims is a complex process that requires careful evaluation of various factors. When you sustain an injury after a slip and fall accident, it is essential to consult with a trusted legal professional who can help you understand and protect your rights. Contact our firm today to learn more.