Definition
The money you're entitled to receive as compensation for your losses after an accident. Damages can be economic (medical bills, lost wages) or non-economic (pain, suffering).
Real-World MVA Example
Your damages from a rear-end collision include $25,000 in medical bills, $10,000 in lost wages, and $30,000 for pain and suffering, totaling $65,000.
Related Terms in Damages & Compensation
Bodily Injury
Physical harm to a person's body caused by an accident. Bodily injury claims cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Diminished Value
The loss in your vehicle's resale value after it has been repaired from accident damage. Even with perfect repairs, a car with an accident history is worth less.
General Damages
Non-economic losses that don't have a specific dollar amount, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Loss of Consortium
A claim by your spouse for the loss of companionship, affection, intimacy, and support they've suffered because of your accident injuries.
Loss of Earning Capacity
Compensation for the reduction in your ability to earn money in the future due to your accident injuries, even if you haven't lost a specific job yet.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life caused by your accident injuries.
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