Can I Get "Loss of Enjoyment of Life" in an Injury Lawsuit?

When attempting to take legal action after filing an injury lawsuit, you might encounter the phrase “loss of enjoyment of life.” This is yet another example of confusing “legalese,” and these complex legal terms can cause plenty of frustration. However, this type of non-economic damage is easier to understand than you might think.

An experienced personal injury attorney in Riverside can explain numerous legal concepts – including loss of enjoyment of life. Knez Law Group, LLP is an established personal injury law firm that has spent many years guiding injured plaintiffs toward justice as evident in our previous cases. First admitted to the State Bar of California in 1980, Fred J. Knez is a personal injury lawyer in Riverside who approaches each case with a wealth of experience. 

What Is “Loss of Enjoyment of Life” in California?

Loss of enjoyment of life involves situations in which victims can no longer participate in once-beloved activities. These activities are usually physical in nature, and their physical nature makes them impossible for many injured victims. The logic is that these activities have real value to the victims. While it is impossible to determine the exact financial value of a lifetime of physical activities, courts recognize that this value is real. Therefore, civil courts often strive to compensate victims for the loss of these experiences. 

What Are Some Examples of Loss of Enjoyment of Life?

There are numerous potential examples of loss of enjoyment of life. Perhaps the most obvious is an amateur athlete who loves playing sports on the weekend. This athlete might be part of an organized league, or they may simply meet up with friends in a more casual manner. Whatever the case may be, this athlete may lose the ability to play sports due to amputations, spinal cord injury, multiple fractures, brain damage, and other issues.

Other examples include simpler, less intense endeavors – like walking the dog or strolling by a lake. Even a few minutes of physical activity each day has immense value in terms of psychological and physical well-being. Physical activity can also bring families closer together – whether it’s a grandfather playing catch with his grandson or a mother-daughter bicycle ride. 

Does California Recognize Loss of Enjoyment of Life?

California courts may not consider loss of enjoyment of life as a separate and distinct non-economic damage. Instead, they may view it as a part of more broad damages, such as “pain & suffering” or “emotional distress.” That being said, the official California Civil Jury Instructions (CACI) include the phrase “loss of enjoyment of life.” 

Work With an Established Personal Injury Law Firm in Riverside

Although non-economic damages can be complex, you never have to approach these difficult concepts alone. With help from experienced personal injury attorneys in Riverside, it becomes easier to approach your case with a sense of confidence. Knez Law Group, LLP can help you pursue compensation for all of your various damages – whether they are financial or psychological in nature. Call 951-742-7681 to work with our personal injury lawyers today.