Economic damages are actual financial losses such as medical bills, the estimated cost of future medical care as determined by specialists, lost wages/salary, future lost earnings, costs for medicines and so on. There is no cap on compensation for economic damages – you deserve to be paid whether your damages are $100 or $1 million.
Non-economic damages refers to losses you suffer in terms of pain and suffering, the loss of the ability to do the things you normally used to do – even the effect your injuries have had on your relationships with others, such as your spouse. In their mistaken belief that injured people are just trying to get rich off their pain and suffering, Colorado lawmakers have capped the amount of compensation you can receive for non-economic damages at just under $500,000. (In special circumstances a judge can award non-economic damages up to just under $1 million).
Physical impairment is a third, distinct category of personal injury damages. Physical impairment can be a little difficult to define specifically, but in general can include cosmetic disfigurement such as scars, a disorder or condition that impairs your ability to live life as you did before your injury such as a crippled leg, or loss of one or more body parts. Like economic damages, compensation for physical impairment is not capped.
If you’ve been hurt by the negligent act of another and are wondering if you have a case, give me a call at (303) 758-4777 or email me and let’s set a time for a no-obligation meeting. We’ll evaluate your situation and let you know if you have a case. You can also schedule a free meeting on our website at www.dlslawfirm.com/contact-us.
Colorado personal injury lawyers, Denver Attorney, Denver Lawyer, Dianne Sawaya