Tiemann Law Firm in Forbes Magazine

call for a free consultation

(916) 999-9000
Home > Accident Injury > Understanding Economic and Non-Economic Damages

Written by Jelena Tiemann and Peter B. Tiemann

Last Updated : December 13, 2023
REQUEST FREE CASE REVIEW

Posted on Thursday, September 28th, 2023 at 5:31 am    

At Tiemann Law Firm, we assist those who have suffered personal injury by helping them understand their rights and determine the best course of action to successfully attain the damages they are entitled to. An area that may confuse our clients is the damages they can claim. California is one of the few states that has not put a cap or limit on the amount of damages a victim can be awarded for “pain and suffering.” These are considered “non-economic” damages. Below is an explanation of economic and non-economic damages to help clarify this issue.

Economic Damages

This is the easier type of compensation to understand and calculate. Economic damages cover monetary losses and expenses that are concrete and can be definitively calculated. These include money for:

  • Medical expenses you have already incurred.
  • Future medical expenses can be anticipated based on the injuries you sustained and the treatment plan your doctor has prescribed.
  • Lost income (if your injuries have caused you to be out of work).
  • Loss of future earning capacity (this considers your current and future earnings if your accident will impact your ability to work in the future for a period of time or permanently).
  • Property damage.

Non-Economic Damages

These types of damages are more complex. They are related to trauma, mental anguish, and the changes in your life due to your accident injuries. Some categories of non-economic damage include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of companionship
  • Disability

As you can see, these are not items with a bill attached or a dollar figure that is easy to calculate. 

An Important Caveat

It’s important to note that there is one exception to who can pursue compensation for non-economic damages. Any person who does not have current and active car insurance at the time of an accident is ineligible to claim or collect non-economic damages from a car accident, regardless of who is at fault.

Our attorneys have a great deal of experience calculating damages in personal injuries and can help you determine the type of damages and the amount of compensation you can pursue.

Economic and Non-Economic Damages

Have you or a loved one been hurt in an accident? If so, Tiemann Law Firm can help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, same-day consultation by calling (916) 999-9000 or toll-free: (800) 712-2000.

Categories: Accident Injury

Client Testimonials

Star Fire Testimonial
Quote

It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Lendzey Garcia
Quote

I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!

Maye Ly Testimonial
Quote

I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
Quote

Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
Quote

I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.