Donald Nolen always enjoyed playing golf, flying planes and riding motorcycles. However, he was unable to partake in any of these activities following a motor vehicle accident. The driver of the other vehicle, Mark Patrick Hastings, was driving under the influence of alcohol. Hastings is shown to have rear-ended Nolen’s vehicle, which was stopped at a red light.
According to Nolen, the injuries that he suffered from the car accident not only cause him constant pain but also prevent him from partaking in his normal recreational activities. This case raises questions on whether auto accident victims can recover compensation for injuries that prevent them from partaking in their usual recreational activities.
Loss of enjoyment of life
Injuries from car accidents can be debilitating. They can prevent you from being able to work. They can also prevent you from taking part in recreational activities, such as hobbies and sports. These injuries prevent you from receiving pleasure or satisfaction from activities that you once enjoyed.
The loss of the ability to engage in and enjoy both intellectual and physical activities can result in diminished pleasure of your life. It is for this reason victims can be compensated for the inability to enjoy activities that were enjoyed prior to the car accident.
Recovering compensation for loss of enjoyment of life
The Nolen vs. Hastings case showed that victims of accidents can claim compensation for injuries that prevent them from enjoying recreational activities that they once enjoyed. You may be entitled to recover financial compensation if you can show that the enjoyment of your life has diminished as you are no longer able to engage in intellectual or physical activities that you regularly took part in before the accident.
There are no set amounts for the compensation in such cases. The actual amount you’ll be given as compensation is left to the discretion of the jury if your case has made it all the way to trial.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, be sure to undergo a medical examination. These records will be used as evidence in court when seeking compensation. The medical records will show your injuries and the impact they have had on your life.
It is also important to engage a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. A personal injury attorney will guide you in building your case for compensation. He or she will also argue on your behalf and improve your chances of being compensated.