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Types of Compensation in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

If you’re injured because of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to sue for damages. Each personal injury case is different, and there are different types of compensation available to you that can help you recover what you’ve lost. The two main types of damages include compensatory and punitive. Compensatory damages cover your financial losses, while punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant for their actions. At Ayres, Cluster & Collins, P.A., our personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling complex personal injury cases. Read on to learn more about these types of damages, and contact our team today to discuss your case. 

Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages are paid to the injured person to “compensate” them, or reimburse them, for their injuries. This type is meant to return the victim to the same position they were in prior to the accident. There are three types of compensatory damages: special damages, general damages and wrongful death damages. 

Special Damages

Special damages are compensatory damages that have a specific dollar amount attached to them, such as medical bills, lost wages, and expenses associated with property damages, irreplaceable items and travel plans. 

General Damages

General damages are compensatory damages that do not have a specific dollar amount attached to them, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life’s activities, such as playing an instrument. 

Wrongful Death Damages

Loved ones of the victim can seek wrongful death damages, which include a combination of financial and compensatory damages. These damages can help cover funeral costs, medical care and the emotional costs that surviving family members experience.