If you are in the middle of a personal injury lawsuit or have experience with civil court cases, you have maybe heard the term punitive damages. A less common form of compensation in personal injury cases, punitive damages differ from both economic and non-economic damages. The fundamental difference is that punitive damages are designed as a punishment for reckless or malicious actions of a defendant.
How Do Punitive Damages Work?
Punitive damages are different because they are not indemnifying the victim. They are awarded as punishment meant to deter the defendant from re-committing the behavior or act.
Punitive damages are never given alone, but in addition to compensatory damages.
In order to receive punitive damages, a judge has determined the defendant’s actions or behavior were malicious or especially negligent. The court and judge may also look at other similar cases to determine the amount of punitive damages to be awarded.
Each state works a little differently when it comes to punitive damages. Consult your local lawyer for specific information about your case and how punitive damages may affect your outcome.
Partnering with a Lawyer
If you were injured in a car accident, slip-and-fall accident, or another type of personal injury, you may be wondering whether your case qualifies for a punitive damages award. It’s important to know that punitive damages are not often awarded.
Nevertheless, your trusted attorney from The Kindle Firm, APC will ensure all your documents are filed on time and give you a better idea of whether your case is one that could be awarded punitive damages.
Get Ahold of a Lawyer Today
For assistance with your personal injury claim, contact The Kindley Firm, APC for a free consultation by calling 619-550-1313. You can also visit our website and fill out the contact form.
We are committed to helping members of our community find justice for the suffering caused by malice and negligent actions of another.
