If the $5,000 in medical bills are from going to a chiropractor to treat whiplash and minor back pain, then you can expect to receive a pain and suffering damage award closer to the $5,000 range.

What is a fair amount to ask for pain and suffering?

For example, if a plaintiff incurs $3,000 in medical bills related to a broken arm, he might multiply that by three, and conclude that $9,000 represents a reasonable amount for pain and suffering. The multiplier method is used in our accident settlement calculator.

What kind of damage award is the pain and suffering?

general damages
Pain and suffering is a category of damages (the amount of money which a plaintiff may be awarded in a lawsuit.) known as–general damages. These general damages are paid by someone who caused an injury due to their negligence or intentional harm. The amount of money available for pain and suffering is subjective.

What makes a pain and suffering Award general?

Pain and suffering awards are considered general damages. General damages are paid to a victim in addition to the actual costs associated with their injuries and treatment.

How is pain and suffering calculated in insurance?

Insurance companies refer to hard costs like medical bills and lost wages as special damages. “Specials” are calculated by adding up the bills and receipts for reasonable expenses. Pain and suffering awards are considered general damages.

How are general damages related to pain and suffering?

General damages are paid to a victim in addition to the actual costs associated with their injuries and treatment. There are no objective measurements for general damages. To get a fair pain and suffering award as part of your compensation, you’ll need to understand how insurance adjusters evaluate general damages.

What are the laws on pain and suffering?

Local laws: Every state handles pain and suffering differently in its statutes. Some states prohibit civil lawsuits for personal injury cases like car accidents. Other states mandate a specific amount that the damages must reach before you can file a claim.