Pain and suffering include both physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by an injury. Unlike medical bills or lost wages, these damages do not have a clear dollar amount. To receive fair compensation, injury victims must provide strong evidence of their pain, emotional struggles, and how their daily life has changed.
Keep a detailed pain journal
A pain journal can help track physical pain levels, emotional struggles, and how the injury affects daily activities. Writing in this journal regularly provides a timeline of symptoms, treatments, and limitations. Including details such as difficulty sleeping, mood changes, and missed social events strengthens a claim for non-economic damages.
Gather medical records and expert opinions
Doctors’ notes, treatment plans, and prescriptions serve as crucial evidence of pain and suffering. Medical experts can provide testimony about the severity of the injury, expected recovery time, and any long-term effects. Psychological evaluations may also help prove emotional distress caused by anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress.
Collect statements from family and friends
Loved ones can describe noticeable changes in personality, behavior, and daily life. Witness statements from coworkers, neighbors, or caregivers can further confirm how the injury affects mobility, mental health, and overall well-being. These testimonials provide a personal perspective that strengthens a claim.
Use photographs and videos
Pictures of injuries, medical treatments, or assistive devices such as crutches or wheelchairs can provide visual proof of suffering. Videos showing difficulty performing everyday tasks, such as walking or lifting objects, can make the impact of the injury clearer to insurance companies or juries.
Seek professional legal guidance
A personal injury attorney can help gather and present evidence of pain and suffering. With proper documentation, injury victims have a stronger chance of receiving fair compensation for the hardships they have endured.