Pain and suffering is non-economic harm involving physical pain, discomfort, distress, or reduced quality of life after an injury.
It is a common damages concept in personal injury and tort cases.
Why pain and suffering matters
Medical bills do not capture every consequence of an injury. Pain, discomfort, anxiety, activity limits, and loss of normal routines may all affect the value and proof of a civil claim.
Because the harm is intangible, evidence and credibility are important.
Where pain and suffering appears
Pain and suffering appears in injury claims, negligence cases, product liability, medical malpractice, premises liability, and settlement negotiations.
Evidence may include testimony, medical records, treatment history, daily limitations, photographs, and witness observations.
How it differs from nearby terms
Pain and suffering is a type of non-economic damage. Economic damages cover measurable financial losses such as medical bills and lost wages.
Compensatory damages is the broader category that can include both economic and non-economic damages.
Practical example
A person injured in a fall proves months of physical pain, disrupted sleep, and inability to resume normal hobbies. Those effects may be part of pain and suffering.
Related Terms
Quick check
Question: Is pain and suffering usually a type of non-economic damage?
Answer: Yes. It covers intangible harm tied to physical or emotional effects.