In personal injury cases, if one suffers property damage, an injury, or another type of loss, they can seek compensation from the at-fault party. There are two types of damages to be awarded: punitive and compensatory. Broadly speaking, compensatory damages can be either special or general. They compensate the victim for the harm suffered, and they are available in most injury cases. On the other hand, punitive damages are rarely awarded. They are given to punish a wrongdoer for their behavior, and they are given directly to the victim. Take a closer look in this article at the compensation a personal injury lawyer in Baltimore can get for a client.
Special Damages
Special compensatory damages repay the victim for their injury-related expenses. They’re unique to the case, and they can vary significantly from one case to another. These damages cover all losses related to an injury, and there is no dollar limit on claims. Some of the most common special damages are:
* Lost earnings
* Lost earnings potential
* Hospital bills
* Expense of future medical treatment
* Household expenses
* Costs of altered plans
General Damages
With general damages, a victim is compensated for non-monetary losses associated with a claim. They are so named because they address losses usually sustained in similar cases. All victims are expected to claim general damages such as pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and mental anguish.
Wrongful Death
Wrongful death claims provide damages for survivors of a victim. Many families are able to make claims for burial expenses, the cost of medical care before death, loved ones’ emotional distress, loss of companionship, loss of financial support, and loss of emotional support.
Punitive Damages
These damages are only given when a defendant exhibits particularly egregious or reprehensible conduct. Such acts may include sexual assault, aggravated battery, or widespread financial fraud. Occasionally, juries will give punitive damages in cases involving large companies and product liability.
Collecting Damages
Plaintiffs become eligible for damages in personal injury cases once a settlement is reached or a judgment is made. However, receiving an award and collecting the money are separate issues. Contact the Law Office of Frank E. Turney, P.A. to find out how a personal injury lawyer in Baltimore can help a plaintiff collect damages by discovering hidden assets, putting a lien on a defendant’s property, or garnishing wages.
