Can I Seek Compensation for Loss of Enjoyment of Life in CA?

When you are hurt in an accident, discovering that the injuries you have sustained will alter your life can be devastating. Not only can you suffer from the pain of the injuries as the medical bills accumulate, but the inability to partake in activities you once enjoyed can decrease your quality of life. If you are impacted by a loss of enjoyment of life as a result of another party’s negligent actions, it is imperative to understand that you can fight for compensation in these matters. Keep reading to learn more about what constitutes a loss of enjoyment and the steps you can take with the help of our Irvine personal injury attorneys to prove these damages.

What Is Loss of Enjoyment of Life?

Generally, any time you are injured in an accident and the injuries you have sustained prevent you from participating in the activities you once enjoyed, it can constitute the loss of enjoyment of life. Activities can range from sports and camping with your children to painting and cooking for charity organizations. Essentially, anything you used to enjoy doing but can no longer participate in as a result of the accident can cause the loss of enjoyment of life.

The loss of enjoyment of life is considered a non-economic damage, as there is no quantifiable value attached to this loss. Someone’s enjoyment of life is a subjective matter, and as such, several factors must be considered to determine the monetary value of the loss.

How Can I Prove These Damages?

Proving non-economic damages, including the loss of enjoyment of life, can be incredibly difficult. As mentioned, there is no receipt or easily calculable value for these matters, so the court must analyze a considerable amount of evidence to determine how much this loss is worth. Generally, factors like the severity of the injury, recovery time, and impact on the victim’s ability to engage in activities will be considered and taken into account.

One of the most important things you can do to showcase the impact of the accident on your ability to enjoy life is to keep a daily journal. Journaling allows you to document your pain levels, symptoms, mental state, and the impact the injury has had on you. Not only can this help provide insight into how the injury has affected you, but it can also help refresh your memory before speaking with insurance adjusters or testifying in court.

You should also obtain copies of your medical records, as these can showcase the severity of your injuries, the limitations you face as a result, and your prognosis. Your attorney may also utilize medical professionals to testify on your behalf as expert witnesses to further highlight the impact the injury has had on your ability to participate in certain activities.

When you are injured and your life is changed, it is critical to fight for the compensation you deserve. At California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, our team can examine your circumstances to determine the best course of action for your needs. Contact us today to learn more.