When you’re hurt in a car accident, the effects can go far beyond medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses. The pain you feel and the ways life changes—those experiences matter, too. That’s where pain and suffering damages come in. These damages recognize both physical pain and emotional distress, aiming to help you get your life back on track.
But figuring out how much these damages are worth isn’t easy. That’s why it’s helpful to have experienced car accident lawyers by your side, like those at the Rothenberg Law Firm, who know exactly how to estimate these unique damages.
The Rothenberg Law Firm: Decades of Compassion and Know-How
For over 50 years, the Rothenberg Law Firm has helped people just like you. They handle tough injury claims and fight hard for every client. Their team takes pain and suffering damages seriously. They listen closely to your story and use proven strategies to estimate what your case is worth. Their lawyers keep things personal, treating every client with care and respect while pushing for the best possible outcome.
What Counts as Pain and Suffering?
Pain and suffering damages are sometimes called “non-economic damages.” They cover things that don’t have a set price tag, like:
- Aching or chronic pain from injuries
- Scarring or permanent disfigurement
- Emotional trauma, stress, or depression
- Loss of enjoyment of your favorite activities
- Trouble sleeping, anxiety, or fear
Every case is different. For some people, the biggest impact comes from not being able to work or play with their kids. For others, it’s emotional scars that linger even after physical wounds heal.
Common Methods to Estimate Pain and Suffering
Rothenberg Law Firm’s approach relies on real-life details. Here are the main tools they might use:
The Multiplier Method
This is one of the most popular ways to put a number on pain and suffering. Here’s how it works:
- First, the lawyer adds up your total economic damages—like medical bills or lost wages.
- Then, they multiply that total by a number (the “multiplier”), usually between 1.5 and 5.
- The multiplier increases with the seriousness of the injury, how long recovery takes, and the lasting changes to your life.
For example: If your medical costs and lost pay are $40,000, and the multiplier is 3, your pain and suffering estimate could be $120,000.
The Per Diem Method
Sometimes, your legal team may use a per diem (per day) method:
- They set a daily dollar amount for your pain and suffering, based on the impact of the injury.
- Then, they multiply that figure by the number of days you were affected.
For instance, if a lawyer picks $200 per day and you were in pain for 180 days, the calculation is $36,000 in damages.
What Influences Your Pain and Suffering Estimate?
Many factors come into play, including:
- The type and severity of the injury
- How long your pain or limitations last
- Permanent scarring or disability
- Impact on your everyday activities and relationships
- Documentation from doctors, therapists, or even your own journal showing the effects on your life
Lawyers at the Rothenberg Law Firm dig into the details to tell your full story, not just the numbers. They may gather notes from family or friends, pictures, and medical records to prove how your life has changed.
Why Having the Right Lawyer Is So Important
Insurance companies may offer a lower number, hoping you’ll settle fast. The Rothenberg team stands up for you, using their experience and strong evidence to fight for what’s fair. They explain every step in plain language, so you always know how your pain and suffering estimate was calculated.
If your injuries are permanent or life-changing, this compensation can help you afford therapy, adapt your home, or simply give you peace of mind. The right lawyer makes all the difference in making sure you’re not left behind.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
If you’re facing pain and suffering after a car accident, don’t try to figure it all out alone. Reach out to a firm with deep expertise like Rothenberg. They’ll help you gather what you need, argue your case, and stand up to insurance companies. Most importantly, they’ll work to get you every dollar you deserve, so you can focus on healing and moving forward.