Accidents happen, and they can impact your life in more ways than one. If you have been a personal injury victim, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for the accident. In such cases, you could be entitled to monetary compensation for the damages caused by the accident. But how are these damages calculated? And what are the various types of damages you can claim in a personal injury lawsuit?
1. Compensatory Damages
Compensatory damages are the most common types of damages that are awarded in personal injury lawsuits. These damages aim to compensate for the actual losses or damages suffered by the plaintiff. This includes economic damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, and non-economic damages, such as emotional distress, pain, and suffering.
2. Punitive Damages
While compensatory damages are meant to compensate the plaintiff for their losses, punitive damages are awarded as a punishment to the defendant. These damages are intended to prevent the defendant from acting similarly in the future. Punitive damages are awarded only in cases where the defendant's behavior is deemed malicious, grossly negligent, or intentional.
3. Special Damages
Special damages, also known as specific damages, are awarded for losses that can be calculated with a reasonable amount of certainty. These damages include lost wages, medical bills, and property damage. These damages are awarded as compensation to the plaintiff for the expenses they have incurred or will incur in the future due to the accident.
4. General Damages
Unlike special damages, general damages cannot be quantified or calculated with certainty. These damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and permanent disability. These damages are awarded based on the severity of the injury and the impact it has had on your life.
5. Nominal Damages
Nominal damages are awarded when the plaintiff cannot prove any actual damages caused by the defendant's actions. Although the damages awarded in this case are minimal, the court recognizes that the plaintiff's legal rights have been violated.
Denver Personal Injury Attorney Helping You File a Claim
At Boesen Law, we have extensive experience in personal injury cases and are dedicated to helping our clients receive the justice they deserve. If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury, don't hesitate to reach out to our team of skilled attorneys. Contact us today at (303) 327-9988 for a free consultation and let us guide you through the process of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
