In personal injury cases, the types of personal injury damages that can be awarded are compensatory, punitive and nominal.
Compensatory damages are intended to compensate the injured parties for their losses such as the cost of medical care, medical bills, lost wages, property damages, disfigurement, pain and suffering and loss of capacity for enjoyment of life.
Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer because his or her actions were deemed especially harmful. This type of personal injury damage would possibly be utilized in cases where the wrongdoer’s behavior was especially careless and irresponsible, such as drunk or distracted driving.
Nominal damages are typically awarded to recognize a legal “loss” but often with no actual associated monetary award attached. These types of personal injury damages can be used as symbols of justice or recognition when the value of a plaintiff’s losses cannot be proven or the primary goal is not necessarily financial compensation.
The personal injury damages available in a particular case are dependent on unique facts and circumstances of that individual case. At Dannheisser Injury Law, we diligently delve into your story and work to thoroughly understand your situation before establishing the best path forward for you.
