Different Types of Damages

When a person is injured due to someone else’s negligence, a civil court may award them compensation for their damages. The amount of compensation is determined by a jury and unique to the needs of each individual case. There are two types of damages: compensatory and punitive.

Compensatory damages are awarded to help a victim restore his or her life as much as possible. The court hopes to help the victim recover financially, physically, and emotionally to the best of their ability. There are two categories of compensatory damages: special damages and general damages. Special damages are for monetary losses. They cover any past or future medical bills, cost of living with a disability, lost wages, property damage, and funeral costs.

For non-monetary losses, general damages are awarded. General damages include pain and suffering as well as intangible items such as loss of a marriage. Because this value is highly subjective, the amounts can vary extensively between cases.

Punitive damages are specifically awarded to punish the defendant. They only occur in cases where the defendant’s has acted in an especially atrocious manner. Most courts limit the damages to ten times the amount awarded for compensatory damages.

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If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence you may be awarded compensatory and / or punitive damages. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with an attorney, contact the experienced and professional Chicago personal injury lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C. by dialing 312-466-8200 today.