Pain and Suffering Damages in Ontario: What to Expect

Pain and Suffering in Ontario

"General damages" compensate for physical and emotional impact. There is no receipt for pain — courts use precedent and expert evidence.

The Ontario Threshold

For car accidents, injury must be "serious and permanent" — significantly impairs important life functions and is not expected to substantially improve.

The Statutory Deductible

Approximately $46,000 deductible applies to general damages in car accident cases.

Factors Affecting Awards

• Age at time of injury
• Severity and duration of pain
• Impact on daily activities
• Psychological effects (PTSD, depression)
• Need for ongoing treatment