The Attorneys You Need When It Matters Most

Understanding Oklahoma pain and suffering damages

In Oklahoma, pain and suffering, or non-economic damages, can be a crucial component of personal injury claims, compensating victims for intangible losses they endure. 

These damages account for the physical and psychological effects that often accompany severe injuries. It is essential to understand pain and suffering to ensure your injury settlement truly addresses your losses.

Legal limitations in Oklahoma

The Sooner State recognizes the importance of compensating individuals for often invisible impacts of severe injury. However, pain and suffering damages remain subject to certain limitations, such as a cap of $350,000 in most injury cases. 

Additionally, claims must be filed within two years of the injury. 

What can pain and suffering cover?

They help the injured address the ongoing mental or physical distress that can accompany a severe injury. Here are some examples of non-economic damages recognized under Oklahoma law:

  • Continuing physical pain
  • Disfigurement or severe scarring
  • Mental and emotional anguish

A pain and suffering award can also address other deeply personal damages (loss of companionship or consortium) you or your loved ones experience as a result of the injury.

Injuries that may qualify for pain and suffering

Typically, life-changing injuries can open a path to non-economic damages. Examples include catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, severe burns and amputations. 

Additionally, injury-related chronic pain, significant disfigurement or substantial emotional trauma may also warrant compensation for pain and suffering. The severity and long-term impact of injury on the victim’s quality of life play a vital role in determining an appropriate compensation amount.

The key to obtaining what you deserve after severe personal harm is filing a well-crafted injury claim. Someone with experience in injury law can lend an invaluable helping hand and represent your interests if your claim is denied or undervalued.