After suffering an injury on someone else’s property, such as a slip on an icy sidewalk, a fall down a poorly lit stairwell, or an accident in a poorly maintained building, you may find yourself dealing with more than just physical pain. You’re also likely facing financial burdens, emotional distress, and significant life disruption. When pursuing a premises liability claim, understanding the difference between economic and non-economic damages can help you better grasp the full scope of your potential compensation. These two categories of damages work together to paint a complete picture of how your injury has impacted your life, but they represent very different types of losses. Continue reading and reach out to a knowledgeable Bronx slip and fall lawyer from the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny to learn more about economic vs. non-economic damages and how our legal team can assist you if you’ve been hurt. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What Are Economic Damages in a Premises Liability Claim?
Economic damages refer to the tangible, measurable financial losses you’ve experienced as a direct result of your injury. These are the kinds of damages that come with receipts, invoices, and documentation–numbers that are easier to prove in court or during settlement negotiations.
For example, your medical expenses fall into this category. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, prescription medications, and even transportation costs to and from medical facilities. Lost wages are another significant component. If you’ve missed time at work–or worse, can no longer perform your job due to long-term disability–you can pursue compensation for the income you’ve lost and may continue to lose in the future.
Essentially, economic damages cover the financial toll the accident has taken on your life. They’re the concrete costs you’ve had to shoulder because of someone else’s negligence.
How Are Non-Economic Damages Different?
Non-economic damages are harder to quantify, but no less real. These damages aim to compensate you for the intangible ways your life has been affected by your injury. They don’t come with bills or pay stubs, but they can significantly impact your well-being and quality of life.
Pain and suffering is one of the most commonly known types of non-economic damage. This includes both the physical pain caused by your injuries and the emotional anguish that often accompanies them. Anxiety, depression, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional trauma are all examples of losses that fall into this category. If your injury has limited your ability to engage in hobbies, social activities, or simply enjoy your day-to-day routine, that loss may be considered when calculating your non-economic damages.
While these damages are more subjective, they are every bit as important in conveying the full extent of your suffering.
Why Does the Distinction Matter in Your Case?
Because the total value of your claim depends on both.
New York courts allow injured parties to pursue both economic and non-economic damages in premises liability cases, but proving them requires different types of evidence and legal strategies. Economic damages may be supported by documentation. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, often rely on testimony, medical evaluations, and a persuasive narrative built by your attorney.
That’s why having an experienced personal injury lawyer in your corner is so important. The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny can clearly demonstrate the financial and emotional impact your accident has had on your life, and how to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call (212) 421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a slip & fall lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
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