Mental anguish refers to the emotional suffering or distress experienced as a result of an injury, accident, or traumatic event caused by another party’s negligence or wrongdoing. It is a type of non-economic damage in personal injury cases, encompassing feelings such as anxiety, depression, grief, fear, humiliation, or loss of enjoyment of life.
Mental anguish is distinct from physical pain, though it often accompanies it, and can arise from both the injury itself and the broader consequences of the incident, such as lifestyle changes or long-term disabilities.
Mental anguish is important in personal injury cases because it recognizes the psychological and emotional toll that injuries can have on victims. Compensation for mental anguish ensures that the full scope of harm, beyond just physical injuries, is addressed. This is particularly critical in cases involving severe or life-altering incidents, such as catastrophic injuries, disfigurement, or loss of loved ones.
For plaintiffs, proving mental anguish requires demonstrating how the incident has significantly affected their emotional well-being and quality of life. For defendants, mental anguish claims often require careful evaluation to avoid inflated damages.
Including mental anguish in personal injury claims highlights the comprehensive impact of injuries on a person’s overall well-being.
When addressing mental anguish in personal injury claims:
Mental anguish claims emphasize the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional consequences of personal injuries, ensuring that victims are fairly compensated for their suffering.
