If you have sustained injuries in a car incident in Arkansas due to someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible to receive compensation for pain and suffering. This type of compensation is distinct from economic damages such as medical bills and lost wages.
Knowing how pain and suffering damages function can help you better navigate the process of seeking compensation.
Calculating pain and suffering damages
In Arkansas, the “multiplier method” is the approach used to calculate pain and suffering damages. This involves taking the total amount of economic damages, like medical expenses and lost income, and multiplying it by a number representing the severity of the injuries and the level of pain and suffering experienced. The multiplier typically ranges from 1 to 5, with 1 indicating the least severe and 5 indicating the most severe.
Factors affecting pain and suffering compensation
Several factors can influence the amount of pain and suffering compensation you may be able to recover in Arkansas. Generally, more severe injuries result in higher pain and suffering compensation. The nature of your injuries, the duration of your recovery and any long-term or permanent consequences can all contribute to determining the compensation you receive.
The courts will also consider the impact your injuries have on your daily life. This can encompass difficulties with work, hobbies or personal relationships caused by your injuries.
In addition to physical pain, the courts may consider the emotional and psychological consequences of your injuries when determining pain and suffering compensation. Factors such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder can all play a role in the calculation.
Understanding these factors and the calculation method used in Arkansas can help you better prepare for seeking compensation for your pain and suffering.