Punitive Damages

Understanding personal injury damages is crucial in seeking fair compensation for injuries. Among the types of damages is punitive damages, which aim to punish the defendant for egregious misconduct. Such damages are rare but serve as a deterrent to future reckless behavior. Examples include a corporation knowingly selling defective products or cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm. Typically, punitive damages are awarded in addition to both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to tangible costs directly tied to an injury, making them straightforward to quantify. Examples include medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation therapy, and property damage. Additionally, they may cover lost earning capacity and future expenses, which could include ongoing treatment or future lost wages. These damages are typically easier to prove with appropriate documentation.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium, which impacts relationships and companionship. Unlike economic damages, these can be challenging to quantify, often requiring legal expertise to determine fair compensation.

Understanding these three types of personal injury damages can significantly impact the outcome of a claim, helping individuals seek fair compensation. For guidance specific to your case, consider consulting with our law firm to explore your options and rights more comprehensively.